Kean wants a clean sheet

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Thursday, May 5, 2016

DPMM FC coach Steve Kean wants his players to keep a clean sheet when they face Warriors FC in the Singapore League (S-League) today – their first away fixture in two months after six consecutive games at home.
It is now 10 games into the season and the defending champions have only managed one clean sheet so far – a 0-0 draw against Hougang United FC on March 4.
DPMM FC picked up their first win of their campaign after beating record nine-time S-League champions Warriors 3-1 at home on Feb 27.
In fact, Brunei’s only professional side has won five of the last seven meetings against Warriors - three of the wins coming in similar 3-1 scorelines.
However, DPMM FC have yet to win an away game this season.
Kean is confident that his side will find the back of the net at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium in Singapore and believes they should get maximum points if they don’t concede.
“I know we will make chances. Hopefully the unit work we have done with the attacking side for the game will score,” said Kean after a training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium on Tuesday.
“First and foremost, I would like to come back with a clean sheet. If we do that, we should have all three points,” added the Scotsman.
DPMM FC are coming off back-to-back defeats for the first time this season after slumping to a 2-1 loss at the hands of Geylang International FC at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas last Saturday – the first time the Eagles have gotten the better of the Brunei side on their home ground.
The result – their fourth loss of the season – sees them lie fifth in the nine-team table with 14 points.
Kean is unfazed by the current situation and believes they will be able to bounce back.
“We know we are a good team. Good teams go though different phases at different times of the season,” said Kean.
“I would be much more worried if we weren’t creating chances and didn’t have control of the games. We have got those two elements right. We just need to make sure around the box we are more ruthless, and we are desperate for some clean sheets.
“We have shown that we had some difficult periods already this season (and) we have put some good results together.
“The disappointing thing is that from the last game is the late goal… to get a wicked deflection near the end was disappointing.
“But if you analyse the game like we always do, we created enough chances to win three games,” added the former Blackburn Rovers manager.
DPMM FC haven’t had problems creating chances but their conversion rate has come back to haunt them in games.
Kean is set to make some changes and hopes that it will help improve their game up front at goal.
“What I’m going to do the next couple of games is to change the shape a little bit. I feel as though we need a different spark up front and maybe just change the angles of the attacking unit a little bit,” said Kean.
DPMM FC have the upper hand in the battle against Warriors, having won 10 of the 17 games played against each other.
Warriors are seventh in the table with nine points from nine games after picking up just one win in their last five games.
With first-choice goalkeeper Yazid Yasin suspended after being sent off against Tampines Rovers FC in their 4-2 loss last Saturday, back-up goalkeeper Zainol Gulam is expected to make his first-ever S-league start - as reported in FourFourTwo Singapore magazine.
DPMM FC forward Paulo Sergio currently leads the league in assists with five, and Japanese centre-back Kento Fukuda will be charged with marking the Portuguese.
In attack, Warriors have a potent striker in Jonathan Behe - the Frenchman currently second in the S-League goal scoring charts with seven goals.
The team are in a renewal process after ditching all the foreign players who helped them win the S-League title in 2014.
Marin Vidosevic, Miroslav Pejic, Kevin McCann and Tom Beattie have all been shown the door, as has Argentine striker Nicolas Velez - who left half-way through last season to play in the Indian Super League.
After scoring 29 goals in a memorable one and a half seasons with the club, 2014 S-League Young Player of the Year Velez proved that he is no flash in the pan after moving from India to Croatia - where he now plays for first division side Hajduk Split.
The loss of Fazrul Nawaz and Daniel Bennett could also come back to haunt the Warriors.
Fazrul Nawaz, who was the top-scoring Singaporean in the league last season, is now at title rivals Tampines - and influential former captain and veteran Singapore international Bennett is now plying his trade at Geylang International FC.

The Brunei Times

Substitutes were excellent: Kean

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Sunday, April 17, 2016

DPMM FC coach Steve Kean heaped praise on his substitutes for making an impact in a 3-1 victory over Balestier Khalsa FC in the Singapore League (S-League) on Friday night.
Rafael Ramazotti and Azwan Ali Rahman had given the Brunei side a 2-0 lead at halftime but Hazzuwan Halim gave the Tigers a lifeline in the 66th minute.
But substitute Shahrazen Said found the back of the net in the 74th minute having only been on the field for six minutes to secure all three points for the Brunei side at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.
“We gave Balestier a sniff and a little bit of hope. We really needed a third goal and that’s why I brought Shahrazen (Said) on because he is always a threat,” said Kean after the triumph.
“He will be a threat at the back post against their smaller leftback. It wasn’t a header he scored but he managed to get in on the back post and got a good goal.
“They (Substitutes) were excellent. Shahrazen came on and almost scored two. Najib (Hj Tarif) came on and showed good determination in defending,” he added.
“The squad is very competitive. Substitutes who come on are making a real impact and even the guys who are not on the bench.
“It is so difficult to pick the side at the moment because everybody is performing so well,” continued the former Blackburn Rovers manager.
Kean also felt that his charges should have added more goals to the scoreline but is hoping to keep clean sheets.
“We should have had more goals. Azwan Ali and Ramazotti should have had a couple more goals,” said Kean.
“The thing is with Balestier, they throw things at it and they get blocks. Even when you saw Azwan Ali had a chance in the first half and think it is easy, the players were screaming out to get a block out and influenced him,” he added.
“Ramazotti had a great header and hit the post twice. We just need to keep making the chances. More importantly we need to make sure we get some more clean sheets,” continued Kean.
On the other hand, Balestier coach Marko Krajevic was disappointed not to get the second goal before Shahrazen killed off the match.
“I was confident and it was coming very nicely. After the goal, confidence came back to the team and I was hoping for a second goal,” said Kraljevic.
“We were trying but there was one good save by the goalkeeper (Wardun Yussof) and after they scored the third goal it was difficult to come back,” he concluded.
The biggest blemish for DPMM FC was the sending off of Paulo Sergio late into added time that will see him miss the matchup against Albirex Niigata (S) FC on Friday.

The Brunei Times

‘Team responded well in 2nd half’

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Sunday, April 10, 2016

GARENA Young Lions (Singapore national under-21 football team) coach Patrick Hesse felt that DPMM FC were simply the better team in their 4-1 defeat in the Singapore League (S-League) on Friday night.
Maududi Hilmi Kasmi had given the hosts a brilliant start before Fareez Farhan responded for the Young Lions just before halftime.
But DPMM FC dominated the second half at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on their way to their third win of the season.
“We didn’t have a very good first half. We wanted to win the second ball and we didn’t but at halftime it was 1-1,” said Hesse.
“I said to the players that I’m sure you can play better in the second half. I made a mistake as Brunei played better than us.
“But what is good is that game after game we are getting more opportunities to score. At the beginning of the season we only had one or two then last week against Tampines (Rovers FC) we had five or six,” added the Frenchman.
“Tonight (Friday night) we had several good opportunities to score and I said to (DPMM FC) coach (Steve) Kean that the score could have been 8-4.
“Twelve goals would have been good but Brunei were the better team,” he continued.
Hesse also felt that failing to capitalise on their opportunities in front of goal hurt them.
“Fareez had two good chances. When he couldn’t score, immediately DPMM FC scored from the corner,” said the Young Lions coach.
“It was a missed opportunity and just after Brunei made it 3-1, he had a very big opportunity against the goalkeeper with three other players but instead he (Fareez) put too much on the ball.
“If it was 3-2 perhaps it wouldn’t be the same game but Brunei could have scored several times. In the end, tonight is a logical result,” he added.
On the other hand, Kean felt that his charges took their foot off the pedal after the opening goal but responded well after the interval.
“I think for the fans it was a very open game with the amount of chances for both sides.
“I felt that after we got a fantastic start, some thing we haven’t been doing in the past few games, for some reason we just stopped,” said Kean.
“We started slowing the game down and played too many passes sideways and not going forward. But credit to the players at halftime I told them to give more service to the front guys,” he added.
“We played really well in the second half and probably could have got three or four more goals.
“Considering the way we finished the first half. We are delighted with the way we completed the whole second half,” concluded the Scotsman.
DPMM FC will play their fourth of a six-game home stretch with a meeting against Balestier Khalsa FC on Friday.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC up to second

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Saturday, March 12, 2016

DPMM FC shrugged off a poor first half performance to secure a 2-1 comeback victory over Home United FC in the Singapore League (S-League) to move to second last night.
Ambroise Begue gave Home the lead before Rafael Ramazotti equalised from the penalty spot in the first half at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.
Azwan Ali Rahman netted the winner after the break to ensure DPMM FC kick off their six-game home stretch on a winning note.
The triumph propels the reigning champions from fourth to second in the nine-team table, tied on eight points with leaders Albirex Niigata (S) FC but having played a game more.
Home, meanwhile, are at the bottom of the table with two points from four games.
DPMM FC coach Steve Kean felt that they weren’t at their best but was pleased to notch maximum points.
“The good thing is that we managed to grind it out even though it wasn’t an attractive second half display from us,” said Kean in the post match interview.
“I felt that we played well in the first four games and should have more points.
“But tonight (Friday night) we didn’t really play as well as we normally do and got the points.
“That is a good sign that you can turn it on in the second half and do much better to get the points against a very good Home United team,” concluded the Scotsman.
Both sides came out playing with a similar game plan – pressing high up the pitch when without the ball and moving the ball to keep possession.
Azhar Sairudin produced the first shot on target from the edge of the box in the ninth minute but it went straight to DPMM FC goalkeeper Wardun Yussof.
Sirina Camara delivered a dangerous ball into the box three minutes later but none of the Home players were there for a simple tap in.
Home grabbed the lead in the 19th minute after an initial shot by Azhar was blocked by Ak Yura Indera Putera Pg Yunos, only to drop nicely for Begue to score from close range.
It took the wind out of DPMM FC’s sails and Home could have added another just four minutes later.
A good through ball by Ken Ilso sent Khairul Nizam through, but the latter’s effort – which was heading towards the bottom corner – was saved by Wardun.
Ilso picked out Aqhari Abdullah inside the six-yard box in the 26th minute but somehow his shot was deflected over the bar.
Ilso had a shot saved by Wardun two minutes later and the Dane was on target again in the 31st minute after he connected on a Begue cross, but his effort was denied by Wardun.
DPMM FC were awarded a penalty in the 33rd minute after Brian McLean was fouled by Camara while defending a set-piece.
Ramazotti stepped up and made no mistake from 12 yards out to make it 1-1.
Home skipper Juma’at Jantan sent a cross from the right two minutes after the interval but Azhar failed to capitalise inside the six-yard box.
The Protectors threatened again in the 55th minute with Khairul Nizam firing from inside the box but it was too weak to trouble Wardun.
Juma’at launched a pile-driver from 40 yards out four minutes later but it was caught by Wardun.
DPMM FC made a double change by sending in Shahrazen Said and Md Najib Hj Tarif in place of Maududi Hilmi Kasmi and Sairol Hj Sahari respectively in the 63rd minute.
It proved to be the difference and the hosts grabbed the lead after Sergio found an unmarked Azwan to head past Home custodian Zulfairuz Rudy in the 72nd minute.
Home almost responded immediately but substitute Irfan Fandi’s effort was deflected over.
The visitors came forward again four minutes later but Aqhari fired just wide from 25 yards out.
At the other end, Sergio missed the mark from a deadball situation in the 77th minute.
Camara crossed for Irfan from the left five minutes later but he was off target.
Ilso unleashed a good shot at goal in the 84th minute but Wardun once again was to his equal.
DPMM FC could have killed off the match in the 87th minute after Sergio dribbled into the box from the left but could only fire to the side netting.
Home had a chance to grab a point out of the match two minutes later with Ilso firing a free-kick into the bottom right corner, but Wardun kept his effort out to seal all three points.
The other match saw Balestier Khalsa FC play out to a 1-1 draw against Warriors FC at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.
DPMM FC will next host Tampines Rovers FC next Saturday in the second of six straight home matches.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC held to draw

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Saturday, March 5, 2016

DPMM FC were held to a 0-0 stalemate by Hougang United FC in the Singapore League (S-League) last night.
The reigning champions remain fourth position in the nine-team table with five points from four matches while Hougang are sixth.
Albirex Niigata (S) FC lead the table with seven points, followed by Geylang International FC (six points) and Tampines Rovers FC (five points)
DPMM FC centreback Brian McLean was out for the match due to a knee injury and the defending champions resorted to an all-local backline, inserting Abdul Aziz Tamit in his position at the Hougang Stadium in Singapore.
According to the S-League Twitter updates, Rafael Ramazotti headed his attempt from inside the box over the bar in the 26th minute.
DPMM FC were given a let off six minutes later as Jozef Kaplan’s effort was denied by the post.
Paulo Sergio tried one from the edge of the box in the 37th minute but was denied by Hougang custodian Khairulhin Khalid.
A minute after the interval, Ramazotti had a close range shot cleared by Nazrul Nazari.
Sergio found Azwan Ali Rahman inside the box in the 78th minute but the threat was dealt with by Delwinder Singh.
The Brunei side almost stole all three points in the 89th minute after Ramazotti got his head to Sergio’s cross, but the effort was off target.
Over at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium, Warriors picked up their first win of the season after a 2-0 triumph over the Young Lions (Singapore national under-23 football team).
DPMM FC next face Home United FC at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on Friday.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC clinch first victory of the season

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Sunday, February 28, 2016

REIGNING Singapore League (S-League) champions DPMM FC barged into the win column after a 3-1 victory over Warriors FC last night.
All the damage was done in the first half with the trio of Brian McLean, Maududi Hilmi Kasmi and Azwan Salleh getting their names on the scoresheet in their first triumph after three matches – moving them up to fourth position on four points tied with Tampines Rovers FC, who have a game in hand, in the nine-team table.
On the other hand, Jonathan Behe netted early in the second half for the Warriors in a losing effort at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.
DPMM FC got off the best of starts and grabbed the lead in the sixth minute.
Azwan Ali Rahman curled a tricky corner kick resulting in Warriors goalkeeper Yazid Yasin getting a hand to it only to fall nicely for McLean to tap in from close range.
Warriors did get the ball in the net in the 13th minute but Syaqir Sulaiman was flagged for offside.
DPMM FC almost doubled the lead four minutes later after Azwan Ali’s freekick from 40 yards out missed everyone but bounced inches wide off the post.
Another chance came begging in the 19th minute but Rafael Ramazotti headed just wide.
Warriors were on target in the 22nd minute with Fazli Jaffar firing from inside the box but DPMM FC custodian Wardun Yussof dived down to keep the ball out.
DPMM FC skipper Rosmin Hj Md Kamis connected on a header off a corner in the 25th minute but it was not enough to trouble Yazid.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 27th minute with Paulo Sergio setting up Maududi to blast past Yazid from inside the box.
It was 3-0 two minutes later with Azwan Salleh unleashing a thunderbolt from over 20 yards out to bulge the net.
Warriors had back-to-back chances to get back into the tie in the 37th minute but Kento Fukuda’s header was deflected just wide.
Jonathan Behe got a free header at the far post off the ensuing corner but couldn’t place it on target.
DPMM FC were pressing high up the pitch and could have added to the scoresheet in the 39th minute but Azwan Ali’s effort from over 20 yards out bounced off the woodwork.
Warriors got one back just two minutes after the interval with good work by Behe down the left to fire off Wardun from close range.
Behe got in a similar position in the 58th minute but this time his effort met the side netting.
At the other end, Sergio got the better of Poh Yi Feng before curling his shot from the edge of the box over.
Things got a little hectic as things got physical with the whistle not getting blown.
DPMM FC manager Ali Hj Momin was even sent to the stands in the 69th minute for contesting with referee Sukhbir Singh for a handball-incident.
Behe got another opportunity in the 75th minute after beating Sairol Hj Sahari but his shot was off the mark.
DPMM FC almost added to the scoresheet the next minute with Sergio setting up Azwan Ali down the middle but the latter’s shot was saved by Yazid.
Behe placed two shots on target in the 80th and 82nd minutes but Wardun was to his equal to deny him twice.
Substitute Shaiful Esah struck a freekick from 25 yards requiring Wardun to tip over in the 90th minute.
Warriors were awarded a penalty on the ensuing corner kick as Azwan Salleh was judged to have handled the ball inside the box.
Behe stepped up to take the spot kick but his attempt was saved by Wardun.
The other game saw Balestier Khalsa FC and Albirex Niigata (S) FC play out to a 1-1 draw at the Toa Payoh Stadium in Singapore.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC held by Eagles

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Sunday, February 21, 2016

REIGNING Singapore League (S-League) champions DPMM FC were held to a 1-1 draw against 10-man Geylang International FC last night.
Sahil Suhaimi opened the scoring for Geylang while Rafael Ramazotti got on the scoresheet for DPMM FC at the Bedok Stadium in Singapore.
DPMM FC are now seventh in the nine-team league with one point from two matches after a 3-2 defeat against Albirex Niigata (S) FC in the Community Shield last Saturday.
According to the S-League Twitter updates, a freekick for DPMM FC almost caught Geylang goalkeeper Syazwan Buhari out at the back post in the second minute.
Geylang found the back of the net three minutes later but was flagged for offside.
Gabriel Quak took a shot at goal from the edge of the box in the 11th minute but was off target.
DPMM FC had a chance in the 18th minute but Azwan Ali Rahman failed to capitalise on a cross from the right.
The Eagles took a short corner in the 22nd minute but DPMM FC shotstopper Wardun Yussof tipped the ball away. Azwan Ali was on target four minutes later but Syazwan was to his equal to keep the match goalless.
The hosts threatened again in the 29th minute after a freekick by Carlos Delgado was headed over the bar.
At the othe end, Maududi Hilmi Kasmi produced a cross in the 38th minute but Azwan Ali couldn’t convert at the far post.
Geylang almost grabbed the lead a minute after the interval off a counterattack but Wardun came to the rescue to deny Quak’s effort from just outside the six-yard box.
A chance went begging for the Brunei side in the 59th minute as Azwan Ali’s cross was just too far ahead for Ramazotti.
Azwan Ali struck a freekick on target on the hour mark but was saved by Syazwan.
The DPMM FC forward threatened again three minutes later but his left footed shot was inches wide of the goal.
The Eagles found the back of the net again courtesy of Al-Qaasimy Rahman in the 65th minute but was ruled offside. Geylang were reduced to 10 men three minutes later after Amy Recha was sent off for his second yellow card.
Brian McLean got a header on target in the 69th minute but it couldn’t test the Geylang custodian. Geylang broke the deadlock in the 75th minute with Sahil Suhaimi squeezing the ball past Wardun.
The lead was shortlived as DPMM FC answered back with Ramazotti scoring on the restart.
Geylang could have stole all three points just before the final whistle as Sahil sent a ball to the top left corner but Wardun produced a magnificent save to ensure both teams share the spoils.
Over at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore, Albirex picked up their second straight win after a 5-0 thrashing of the Young Lions (Singapore national under-23 football team).
Atsushi Kawata scored four goals while Masaya Jitozono netted the other.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC sponsors get on board for 2016

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Saturday, January 30, 2016

DPMM FC held their annual sponsor signing ceremony for the upcoming Singapore League (S-League) season yesterday.
The ceremony at the Red Jade Room of the Centrepoint Hotel in Gadong was witnessed by DPMM FC vice-chairman YAM Pg Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pg Anak Hj Abdul Rahim Pg Indera Mahkota Pg Anak (Dr) Kemaludin Al-Haj.
Representing DPMM FC were club manager Pg Hj Muhd Waslimin Pg Setia Jaya Pg Hj Abd Momin and marketing manager Hj Momin Hj Md Ja’afar while representatives from DST Group, Royal Brunei Airlines, Mitsubishi Corporation, Maju Motors Sdn Bhd, Brunei Shell Marketing Co, Baiduri Bank, Hertz, Hui Huang Enterprise, Nazmi Textile Mall and Sports Partnership Pte Ltd signed on as sponsors.
DPMM FC also unveiled their new home jersey during the event.
Brunei’s only professional team are coming off their best season to date after capturing their maiden S-League title last year.
However, the squad for the new season has not been finalised yet as the player signing ceremony was not conducted yesterday.
DPMM FC team manager Ali Hj Momin revealed that they are retaining most of the players and have yet to decide whether to go for a pre-season tour.
“The majority of the team are made up of the same imports and local players with two or three new young players to fill in the rest of the slots,” said Ali in an interview with The Brunei Times after the signing ceremony yesterday.
“We are still selecting and will finalise the roster soon.
“We received invitations from neighbouring countries to play but we haven’t decided where to go because of the limited time.
“There is only a short amount of time before the season starts so we can’t go for long as well,” continued Ali.
With the import quota reduced from five to three this season, the club have released Bosnian defender Boris Raspudic and Northern Irish midfielder Joe Gamble.
The duo of Rafael Ramazotti (Brazil) and Paulo Sergio (Portugal) are the only imports that are back in the Sultanate while Northern Irish defender Brian McLean has yet to arrive in Brunei as he just became a father for the first time recently.
“I hope he (McLean) can get fit as soon as possible. We know it is hard for him having his first baby and he is outside of the country,” said Ali.
“Hopefully he will be here in February before we play our first game,” he added.
The DPMM FC manager also went on express his appreciation and thanked the sponsors, the Department of Youth and Sports and NFABD (National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam) for their continuous support.
DPMM FC kick off this year’s campaign on February 13 with a meeting against Singapore Cup and League Cup holders Albirex Niigata (S) FC in the Community Shield at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.
DPMM FC will also have their annual Football Fanfare tomorrow at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.
The event will begin at 8.45am, and a total of 16 Under-11 teams will vie for top honours in the competition.

The Brunei Times

Rafa, Paulo eager to reunite

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Friday, January 22, 2016

DPMM FC forwards Rafael Ramazotti and Paulo Sergio are looking forward to joining forces once again for the upcoming Singapore League (S-League) season.

The duo, who scored a total of 34 goals between them last campaign, are the first two imports to arrive back in the sultanate for pre-season training with Northern Irish defender Brian McLean yet to arrive.

Ramazotti, who finished as the league’s topscorer with 21 goals, is looking forward to another good season with the defending champions.

“I need to play with this guy (Sergio) in every club and country. We need to play together because we can help each other and it is good,” said Ramazotti in an interview with The Brunei Times yesterday after a training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

“It is good we finished last year with a good season. Now we will see what happens and we hope to get the same feeling again,” he added.

“I don’t have a target for goals but the first objective is to win the league again and support my club. Sure if I score, I can help, but most important is what we can achieve as a group,” continued Ramazotti.

The 1.93m Brazilian striker also went on to thank everybody for supporting the club, especially in their final league game which saw them beat Balestier Khalsa FC 4-0 to lift the trophy for their first time at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on Nov 27.

Sergio praised Ramazotti for his qualities but also felt that it is a pity that the import quota has been reduced from five to three this season.

“It is amazing to play with this guy. He has a lot of quality and I’m looking forward to having another good partnership with him this season,” said Sergio, who produced 17 assists last season.

“He is tall, strong and is good with the ball. It is a pleasure for me to play with him again,” he added.

“The other import players Joe (Gamble) and Boris (Raspudic) helped a lot in getting the win.

“If they stayed with us, it would be a lot better - but we will keep working and condition ourselves entering the league,” continued the Portuguese forward.
When asked on the target to defend the league title, Sergio replied: “This season, for sure it will be very hard for us to defend the title as other teams have made many transfers to strengthen their squad.

“This league is strong but we are here with this motivation in our mind that we want to be champions again,” he concluded.

DPMM FC will kick off their campaign against Singapore Cup winners Albirex Niigata (S) FC in the Community Shield on Feb 13 at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

They will then face off against Geylang International FC at the Bedok Stadium in Singapore six days later.

The Brunei side will play their first home game at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas against Warriors FC on Feb 27.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC to face Albirex Niigata on February 13

Ak Fauzi Pg Salleh

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Thursday, January 14, 2016

SINGAPORE S-League champions DPMM FC will face Singapore Cup holder Albirex Niigata FC (S) in the community shield on February 13. The opener which also served as the curtain raiser for the S-League will be held at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.
DPMM FC claimed their first S-League title last year after finishing second best in 2014 and 2012. Last year was the best season to date for DPMM FC after finishing third in the Singapore Cup defeating the Philippines’ Global FC 3-1 in the third-place playoff.

The Brunei Times

Ramazotti staying with DPMM FC

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

SINGAPORE League (S-League) defending champions DPMM FC reassured yesterday that topscorer Rafael Ramazotti will be returning to ply his trade with the club for the upcoming season.
It was reported on Berita Harian on Monday that the Brazilian striker is set for trial with T-Team in the Malaysian League.
T-Team assistant coach Mohd Azhari Salim was quoted on the Malaysian daily saying: “Ramazotti is already in Kuala Lumpur and we will test him in a series of three friendly matches to look at his ability to lead the attack of The Titans.”
However, DPMM FC manager Ali Hj Momin rebutted the report and said that the 1.93m forward is still in Brazil.
“He isn't there (Kuala Lumpur). He contacted me last night (Monday night) about his ticket and that he will be coming back here from Brazil,” said Ali in an interview with The Brunei Times.
“He has already extended his contract with us till the end of the 2016 season,” he added.
Ramazotti was key to Brunei's only professional team winning their maiden S-League title last year after finding the back of the net 21 times in the competition.
He also received nominations in both the Goal of the Year and Player of the Year categories.
With the import quota being reduced from five to three for this season, Portuguese forward Paulo Sergio and Northern Irish defender Brian McLean are the other two retained.
Bosnian defender Boris Raspudic and Irish midfielder Joe Gamble were the other two imports that have been released. - Yee Chun Leong

The Brunei Times

Kean not worried if import quota reduced

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Thursday, December 3, 2015

DPMM FC coach Steve Kean is not too worried about talk of a reduction in the import quota for the Singapore League (S-League) next season - especially since he has plans to bring in two of the club’s Under-19 players.
Channel NewsAsia last week reported that there will be a reduction in the quota of foreigners for S-League clubs from five to three next season, and though Kean feels it may be difficult for S-League champions DPMM FC to adjust, he is not losing any sleep over it.
DPMM FC can boast of having the reigning S-League top scorer Rafael Ramazotti in their ranks, and the understanding the Brazilian formed with Portuguese forward Paulo Sergio was instrumental in DPMM FC winning the S-League for the first time this season.
Also key to the club’s success this year was Irish midfielder Joe Gamble and the cohesive centre-back partnership of Bosnian Boris Raspudic and Northern Ireland’s Brian McLean.
“We’re not stressing at all. I have sat down with the chairman and spoke about who we want to keep,” said Kean in an interview with The Brunei Times at a meet and greet session at The Mall in Gadong yesterday.
“It is difficult because what happens (if the quota is reduced) is that the emphasis is on the local players
“The imports are to fill the holes of the locals but now the lads will have to step up. But I’m ecstatic as I feel we’ve got the best locals.
“We will give an offer to the first (import) we want to keep, and if they don’t accept, somebody else will.
“But I believe everybody wants to stay with us because we are the best team.
“Regardless, I believe we will have a brilliant team for next year,” continued the former Blackburn Rovers manager.
The Scotsman also revealed that two players from the Under-19 side, which was formed in June, will be inserted into the first team roster next season.
DPMM FC will take a break before getting back on the training ground on Jan 9 to prepare for next season, and Kean said he is also looking at some friendly matches for the team in Kuala Lumpur.
“I’m bringing in two Under-19 players into the first team squad,” said the 48-year-old.
“Maybe it won’t be about replacing anyone since we are losing imports. This is also to show that the Under-19 team… Is a real pathway to the first team.
“We are probably going to KL to play three or four games in the first week of February.
“Our pre-season has always been good and it doesn’t matter when the games are. (More) important is what we do during the off season,” he concluded.
Kean arrived in the Sultanate back in Nov 2013 and led the club to their best season to date this year.
DPMM FC clinched their maiden S-League title on Nov 21 and equaled their best finish in the Singapore Cup with a third-place finish on Friday.
However, it was their worst showing in the Singapore League Cup this year as the three-time champions failed to make it out of the group stages for the first time in five attempts.
Despite only being formed in June, the Under-19 team - which is trained by Kean and was one of his priorities when joining the club two years ago - has already made their mark by clinching a four-team tournament in September.
They won all three of their games, scoring 18 goals and conceding only two.
Playing in their competitive debut, the team defeated Brunei Polytechnic 4-2 in the final on Sept 20.
They started their campaign by beating the Brunei Sports School Soccer Academy (BSSSA) 11-0 and went on to record a 3-0 win over Sports School Under-15.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC triumph

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Sunday, November 22, 2015

THIRD time's the charm for DPMM FC as they clinched their maiden Singapore League (S-League) title with a 4-0 victory over Balestier Khalsa FC last night.
Having finished runners-up in 2012 and last year, DPMM FC became only the second foreign side - with Etoile FC of France being the other - to win the competition.
The Brunei side ended their campaign with 52 points while Tampines Rovers FC, who were held to a 1-1 draw against Harimau Muda (Malaysia national under-22 football team) at the Jurong West Stadium in Singapore, will finish second four points back.
Paulo Sergio netted a hat-trick in the first half before Rafael Ramazotti netted one late on, to finish as the league’s topscorer with 21 goals to his name, in the victory at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas. DPMM FC coach Steve Kean felt that it was one of the best performances from his charges all season and hailed Sergio for his showing.
“I do (think that is one of the best performances). It is always nice to leave that to the one that really matters,” said Kean after the triumph.
“Not only is he (Sergio) a difference maker, it is his work off the ball. He was absolutely outstanding.
“When you got a player in your team with that quality and got everything, I’m delighted he finished off the season like this,” added the former Blackburn Rovers manager.
When asked on how he summed up the season, Kean replied: “I think we’ve matured a lot as a team. “We are the fittest team, showed tactically and technically we can keep the ball and cause teams problems no matter what they do whether they are physical or they play on the counter attack,” he added.
“We are beginning to understand all of that and we have improved as a club over the past couple of seasons,” continued the Scotsman.
DPMM FC came out firing on all cylinders and grabbed the lead in the 13th minute with Sergio's shot from inside the box deflected off Emir Lotinac past Balestier goalkeeper Zaiful Nizam.
The advantage was doubled five minutes later with Ramazotti sending Sergio through and the Portuguese forward cleverly chipped Zaiful.
Balestier almost pulled one back in the 30th minute with Ignatius Ang firing from 12 yards out but DPMM FC custodian Wardun Yussof was to his equal for a good save.
Ramazotti was sent through on goal in first half injury time and the Brazilian rounded Zailful but Sergio got to the ball first to blast it home to complete his hat-trick.
Sergio had a chance to add to his tally two minutes after the interval but his shot from outside the box went straight to Zaiful.
Skipper Rosmin Hj Md Kamis chipped the ball to send Ramazotti through on goal in the 56th minute but the ball was cleared away by a Balestier defender just before firing from close range.
The Tigers were completely taken out of their stride by the DPMM FC defence and were unable to play their usual long ball tactics.
The hosts held the ball well and completed the rout in the 86th minute with Sergio putting the ball in the middle to see Ramazotti slot home from inside the box.
On the other hand, Balestier coach Marko Kraljevic felt DPMM FC were simply the better team.
“Congratulations to DPMM FC for winning the championship. They deserved it and I think they were the best team in the league this year,” said Kraljevic.
“They were hungrier and had more fighting spirit. They worked really hard and we conceded one goal. We needed to win to finish top three and we opened the game a little which allowed them to get behind us,” he added.
“We lost the ball in the danger area and they scored the second goal. The third goal in the last minute of the first half killed the game.
“We tried passing the ball but it wasn’t working. DPMM FC were sharper and faster than us. They were just the better team,” concluded the Croatian.
DPMM FC will now shift their focus to their Singapore Cup semi-final second leg against Home United FC at the Yishun Stadium in Singapore on Tuesday.

The Brunei Times

http://www.bt.com.bn/sports-national/2015/11/22/dpmm-fc-triumph

DPMM FC eyeing first S-League title tonight

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Saturday, November 21, 2015

DPMM FC are using last season’s heartbreak as the extra push to win the Singapore League (S-League) title for the first time when they host Balestier Khalsa FC at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas at 8.15pm in their season-ender tonight.
The side suffered the biggest slip up the league has ever seen last year after they were unable to take advantage of their eight-point lead at the top of the table going into the final round.
They finished runners-up after losing five of their last seven games - including a 2-0 loss to Tampines Rovers FC in a must-win match on the final day, allowing Warriors FC to claim the title.
Title contenders Tampines Rovers FC, who are only two points behind DPMM FC, will kick off against Harimau Muda (Malaysia national Under-22 football team) at the same time at the Jurong West Stadium in Singapore, and only victory will suffice for the five-time S-League champions if they are to make it title number six tonight.
Winning by a two-goal margin will see them lift the trophy should DPMM FC be held to a draw.
“When you have been so disappointed, you have to carry that the whole close season. It is a horrible feeling,” said DPMM FC coach Steve Kean after a training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium yesterday.
“I hope that provides the extra little bit of motivation to make sure that this year we finish and enjoy the close season.
“We are hungry and ready. There is a real appetite to win this game,” continued Kean.
The 2012 title race went down the wire as well – and there was disappointment for DPMM FC who ended second to Tampines after dropping 2-0 to Balestier in a must-win game for them on home soil, with the Stags winning the trophy after skipper Fahrudin Mustafic converted a panelty to give them a 1-0 win over Harimau Muda.
DPMM FC are up for a difficult task tonight as Balestier are the only side to have beaten DPMM FC both home and away so far this season. The Tigers inflicted the first defeat on DPMM FC with a 2-1 victory on May 1 and won by the same scoreline in their second encounter on August 29.
DPMM FC last defeated the Tigers in April last year when they won 4-1 on home soil. DPMM FC are coming off a two-week break with their last match on Nov 6 - a 3-1 victory over Warriors.
Kean knows what to expect from Balestier and hopes his charges can deliver.
“It is not a case where Balestier will come here to play any different to what has been successful for them,” said the Scotsman.
“We know they are going to be direct, aggressive and physical - but what we must focus on is to be patient with the ball.
“We want to dominate possession and make sure that for the majority of each half, we have more possession - which means we deal with fewer long ball and set plays,” added the former Blackburn Rovers manager.
“It is about us that we can play at our maximum… Pass the ball, keep the ball and create chances.
“When our front three of (Rafael) Ramazotti, (Paulo) Sergio and Azwan Ali (Rahman), I don’t think there is more a potent threat in the league. It is about getting the ball to them with quality, and not just smashing it so that they can finish,” continued the 48-year-old.
On the other hand, Balestier coach Marko Kraljevic is aiming for a top-three finish ahead of Albirex Niigata (S) FC.
“Our main priority is a top-three finish. It is a good achievement if we can do it,” Kraljevic told The Brunei Times yesterday.
“If before the season started I knew I we would finish in the top-three, I would be very happy. We’re close to it.
“There is a good chance for us as the boys are in good fighting spirit. Teamwork has also been a big part of our success and that ifs what has got us to where we are.
“We have to watch out for Azwan Ali, Paulo and Rafa… their key players in attacking.

“They are also dangerous in their set pieces with (Boris) Raspudic and (Brian) McLean coming forward. We will have to be careful against them.
“We have beaten them two times this season and they are within their first title. There is a lot of pressure on them.
“But no team can come here being confident. DPMM FC are top of the table and they have got the advantage,” added the Croatian.
Kick off is at 8.15pm and entrance is free of charge. Free t-shirts will also be handed out on a first come, first serve basis while stocks last.
The Brunei Times

No charge to watch DPMM FC’s last game

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

SINGAPORE-League (S-League) leaders DPMM FC yesterday announced that Saturday’s season-ender against Balestier Khalsa FC at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas will be free of charge.
Kick-off is at 8.15pm, and DPMM FC are favourites to win the S-League for the first time as they have a two-point lead over second-placed Tampines Rovers FC, who face Harimau Muda (Malaysian national Under-22 football team) at the Jurong West Stadium in Singapore at the same time.
Nothing will stop DPMM FC from clinching the title should they defeat Balestier, but Tampines will need to win by a two-goal margin should the match in Brunei end in a draw for DPMM FC.
T-shirts will be handed out to spectators on a first come first serve basis, and there are also 25 lucky draw prizes up for grabs including three return tickets – with the destination yet to be determined – sponsored by Royal Brunei (RB).
DPMM FC are looking to avoid history repeating itself as the 2012 title race went down the wire as well – and there was heartbreak for the club.
Brunei’s only professional team ended second to Tampines after dropping 2-0 to Balestier in a must-win game for them on home soil, with the Stags winning the trophy after skipper Fahrudin Mustafic converted a penalty to give them a 1-0 win over Harimau Muda.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC have one hand on S-League title

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Saturday, November 7, 2015

DPMM FC took a huge step towards their first ever Singapore League (S-League) title after downing defending champions Warriors FC 3-1 last night.
The victory at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium in Singapore knocks both Balestier Khalsa FC and Albirex Niigata (S) FC out of the title race - leaving Tampines Rovers FC the only side still within reach of the S-League trophy.
DPMM FC are now on 49 points with a game left while Balestier are on 44. Albirex are third with 42 points and a game in hand while Tampines have 41 points with two games in hand.
Tampines still have Home United FC, Albirex and Harimau Muda (Malaysia national Under-22 football team) left on the schedule, and any slip up will automatically see DPMM FC crowned champions before they face Balestier at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on Nov 21.
According to the S-League’s Twitter feed, DPMM FC grabbed the lead in the eighth minute after a poor clearance by Warriors goalkeeper Daniel Ong fell for Paulo Sergio to slot home.
The Warriors had a chance to open the scoring in the 18th minute but Hafiz Rahim headed over Miroslav Pejic’s corner.
DPMM FC doubled their lead four minutes later after the Warriors gave the ball away deep in their own half, and Sergio threaded the ball for strike partner Rafael Ramazotti to score his league-leading 20th goal of the competition.
Pejic fired a shot from just outside the box in the 31st minute and it was deflected inches wide off Sairol Hj Sahari.
DPMM FC should have added to the scoreline in the 41st minute after Ong denied Azwan Ali Rahman and the rebound rolled towards an unmarked Maududi Hilmi Kasmi - who blasted over.
The Warriors were given another let off two minutes after the interval when Sergio sent in a low cross but Azwan slammed his effort against the post.
Another chance went begging for DPMM FC in the 50th minute after a mix-up between veteran defender Daniel Bennett and Ong led to the ball being given away to Sergio.
The Portuguese squared it for Joe Gamble, though the Irishman was unable to beat Ong.
It was 3-0 seven minutes later with Boris Raspudic heading home Azwan’s corner.
A poor throw by Syaqir Sulaiman gifted DPMM FC the ball in the 58th minute, but Sergio couldn’t make them pay the price by firing over.
The Warriors threatened in the 73rd minute but Syaqir headed over from close range.
At the other end, Sergio got the ball to Maududi four minutes later but he fired straight at Ong.
Sergio picked out Ramazotti (pic) at the far post in the 79th minute, but the Brazilian headed just wide.
The Warriors were given a glimmer of hope the next minute after Brian McLean diverted a Thomas Beattie cross into his own net, but it was a mere consolation.
Over at the Jalan Besar Stadium, Young Lions (Singapore national Under-23 football team) came back from two goals down to draw 2-2 against Geylang International FC.
In the night’s other match, Harimau Muda recovered from an opening minute deficit to beat Hougang United FC 2-1 at the Hougang Stadium.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC in drivers seat

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Friday, November 6, 2015

IT IS straightforward for DPMM FC now - win two games, and the Singapore League (S-League) title is theirs for the first time.
The Brunei side are back in the drivers seat after Balestier Khalsa FC edged Tampines Rovers FC 4-3 at the Toa Payoh Stadium in Singapore last night.
The Tigers, who are now second on 44 points, closed the gap on the league leaders to two points with only a game remaining – a season-ending meeting against DPMM FC at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on Nov 21.
Tampines, who are stuck on 41 points with a game in hand, have been pushed down to fourth in the table after Albirex Niigata (S) FC came from behind to beat Home United FC 2-1 at the Yishun Stadium in Singapore in last night’s other game.
The Japanese outfit are only four points adrift of DPMM FC with two games left.
Brunei’s only professional team can knock both Balestier and Albirex out of the title race with a win over the defending champions Warriors FC at the Choa Chua Kang Stadium in Singapore tonight.
DPMM FC coach Steve Kean felt that Balestier’s win over Tampines was a plus for them and that victory against Warriors might be enough to lift the title.
“It was a good result,” said Kean in an interview with The Brunei Times last night.
“What we need to do now is play with a calm head and not get too excited.
“If we win tomorrow (Friday), it could be enough before we get to the last match as Tampines would have played their games in hand - so we know what to do,” he added.
DPMM FC are coming off back-to-back defeats for the first time this season after losing to the Stags 1-0 at home on Oct 28 and Geylang International FC 2-1 on Tuesday.
The Brunei side defeated the Warriors in their first two meetings this season – 3-1 on April 24 and 2-0 on August 19.
However, there has been a big change as Alex Weaver is no longer the coach.
When asked on what to watch out for, Kean replied: “Warriors have got nothing to lose and the danger is that they have got a new coach.
“They will have a different way of playing and can be unpredictable.
“It is all about us. We were excellent in the first half against Geylang and in the last 15 minutes.
“We will respect our opponents and we just to have to play at our maximum,” concluded the former Blackburn Rovers manager.
Azwan Ali Rahman will return after serving a one game suspension for his fourth yellow card of the season.

The Brunei Times

DPMM FC open up six-point lead

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Saturday, October 24, 2015

DPMM FC produced a clean sweep of Harimau Muda (Malaysian national Under-22 football team) in the Singapore League (S-League) after a 2-0 victory to go six points clear at the top of the standings last night.
The Brunei side are now on 46 points with four games remaining. Second placed Balestier Khalsa FC are on 40 points while Tampines Rovers FC are a further three points back but with two games in hand.
Goals from Brian McLean and Rafael Ramazotti (pic) in the first half sealed the win at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Malacca.
For Ramazotti, it was the third straight S-League game the Brazilian has netted and he is firmly atop the S-League goal scoring charts with 18 goals in his debut season with the club - with second-placed Fazrul Nawaz of Warriors FC on 15.
According to the S-League’s Twitter feed, DPMM FC came out aggressively and in the second minute Maududi Hilmi Kasmi raced towards goal but produced a weak shot - resulting in an easy save for Harimau Muda custodian Farhan Abu Bakar.
Azwan Ali Rahman tried one from distance three minutes later but his attempt was saved by Farhan. They got another opportunity in the eighth minute with Paulo Sergio through on goal but the Portuguese forward blasted his attempt over.
DPMM FC were given a let off in the 19th minute with Adam Nor heading Syazwan Andik’s free-kick, only to watch it crash off the bar. The visitors broke the deadlock on the half hour mark after McLean headed home Azwan Ali’s free-kick.
DPMM FC doubled their lead just six minutes later after Farhan gave the ball away to Ramazotti to smash home.
Sergio tried to curl one in off a set piece in the 44th minute but Farhan punched clear.
Harimau Muda almost pulled one back four minutes after the interval through skipper Amirul Hisyam but his long range attempt was denied by the post.
It nearly ricocheted back into goal, but DPMM FC shotstopper Wardun Yussof got hold of it.
DPMM FC had a chance to add to the scoreline off a counter attack in the 58th minute but Maududi’s shot was saved by Farhan.
Adam attempted a dipping shot from 30 yards out in the 63rd minute but it was tipped over by Wardun.
Sergio and Ramazotti played a quick one-two in the 79th minute for the former to shoot at goal but Farhan denied him.
Harimau Muda were reduced to 10 men after Amirul Hisyam picked up his second yellow card in stoppage time for a tackle on DPMM FC captain Rosmin Hj Md Kamis, who was forced to be substituted after the challenge.
Meanwhile, last night’s other match between Geylang International FC and Hougang United FC at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore was cancelled due to haze.

The Brunei Times

Sergio boost for DPMM FC

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Saturday, October 17, 2015

PAULO Sergio has been cleared to play when leaders DPMM FC face off against Home United FC in the Singapore League (S-League) at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas at 8.15pm tonight.
The Portuguese forward has been bogged down by a recurring hamstring injury which he suffered in August and had to be substituted at half-time in the first leg of the Singapore Cup semi-final against Home on Oct 2.
DPMM FC coach Steve Kean is glad to have Sergio, who found the back of the net four times in the past six games in all competitions, back in the lineup ahead of the match against the Protectors.
“All credit to him (Sergio) and especially the medical staff who have worked very hard over the past 10 days to get his hamstring recovered,” said Kean in an interview with The Brunei Times after a training session yesterday at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.
“He is at 100 per cent but he might not be able to play the whole game as he will need to be careful near the end. He is looking sharp and it’s always good to have him back.
“What he brings is real energy in the front line and it is where we start to defend from. He always puts the defenders under pressure and makes them rush the passes,” he added.
“When we get the ball, he is so dynamic and explosive to cause problems in behind the defence. It is definitely nice to have him back on the pitch and he is the main provider for Rafa(Rafael Ramazotti),” continued the Scotsman.
DPMM FC, who are on 39 points from 20 games, only have a two-point gap but two games in hand from second placed Balestier Khalsa FC after Robert Pericic netted in the 87th minute to give the Tigers a 1-0 victory over Albirex Niigata (S) FC last night at the Toa Payoh Stadium.
It will not be an easy task against Home as the last two S-League encounters this season ended with both teams sharing the spoils – a 2-2 draw at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on March 21 followed by a 0-0 stalemate at the Yishun Stadium on July 22.
DPMM FC did get the better of the Protectors with a 3-2 result at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore on Oct 2, ending a 10-game unbeaten run for the Protectors in all competitions dating back to June 22.
However, Home dominated ball possession and had the bulk of the chances in the match – something that is uncommon for DPMM FC.
“We have to make sure we get more possession. In the previous game we surrendered possession quite easily,” said Kean.
“We didn’t hold on the ball like our normal quality. We were trying to force the game a little bit we were trying to get in with one pass. Against a team like Home you need to secure the first few passes then push them back.
“Psychologically, playing at home we want to get the ball and get the crowd behind us,” added the former Blackburn Rovers manager.
“Home are a good side on the counter attack but our defending, as a team not just the defensive unit, has been very good.
“It isn’t something we focused too much on and we try to be us who will have the ball more.
“We will work really hard to get it back high up the pitch,” continued Kean.
On the other hand, Home are in sixth position and 13 points away from the leaders.
Home coach Philippe Aw is glad to be playing the Brunei side once again so soon and is looking to prevent them from running away further at the top of the table.
“In a way, it’s good we are playing them again so fast,” he told DPMM FC Matchday Magazine. “The team are all very disappointed as we knew that was a game we should not have lost because of our performance. The boys know it.
“So it’s good that we’re playing DPMM FC again.
“They are trying to run away with the league but we’re not giving up on it and we’re going to Brunei to grab three points,” he added.
The Protectors will be without the suspended Sirina Camara for the encounter.
Meanwhile, Warriors FC watched their chance on retaining the title take a hit after slipping to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of the Young Lions (Singapore national under-23 football team) at the Jalan Besar Stadium lat night.
The other match saw Harimau Muda (Malaysia national under-22 football team) defeat Geylang International FC 2-0 at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Malacca.

The Brunei Times

Kean disappointed with draw

Yee Chun Leong

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Friday, September 18, 2015

DPMM FC coach Steve Kean was disappointed not to walk away with maximum points against Albirex Niigata (S) FC in their Singapore League (S-League) game on Wednesday night.
Kean watched his charges dominate the matchup but were held to a 0-0 draw at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.
Despite the disappointment, the Scotsman is looking at the positive side of things.
“I think when you set out a gameplan before the game and the players carry it out well... Then you can’t have any complaints,” Kean was quoted as saying on the S-League website.
“But we are disappointed with the point, although it’s a better point for us than for Albirex.
“From the balance of chances we are disappointed.
“Certainly from the balance of the game, because I thought we nullified them and we didn’t allow them to play,” he added.
With only eight games left in the season, the result sees DPMM FC, who are on 36 points from 19 games, remain four points clear at the top of the 10-team table from both the Japanese outfit and defending champions Warriors FC.
Kean hopes that they can keep the momentum going into the next game against the Young Lions (Singapore national Under-23 football team) on Tuesday at the same venue.
“I think at this stage of the season we have set the standards well. How we go and play, that was tonight (Wednesday night) with our work ethics and discipline without the ball. That’s the first thing we need to demand from each other.
“If we can get the performance it will be hard for opposition to beat us. That’s the target for the next game, to play as well as we did with or without the ball and I’m confident we will get goals,” said the former Blackburn Rovers manager.
Albirex coach Tatsuyuki Okuyama was also disappointed they were unable to close the gap on the league leaders.
“This match was for us the chance to close the gap on DPMM FC, and I’m disappointed with the performance,” said Okuyama.
“We should have scored at least one goal and won today’s game, and I’m disappointed that we didn’t.
“I believe that we can still go on in the title race. We will just continue to work harder and keep winning the rest of the games and hope DPMM FC drop some points,” he added.
Albirex are the best defensive team in the competition having only conceded 11 goals to date.
However, they haven’t been impressive up front with 19 goals in as many games.
“For offence, I think we could have done better. I think we can be more accurate,” said the Albirex coach.
“Of course we want to score more goals, but DPMM FC are a very good opponent so that’s why we couldn’t create a lot of chances tonight,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Hougang United FC defeated Home United FC at the Jalan Besar Stadium in last’s night sole game.
The Brunei Times