[ press release by FAS] Singapore to face China PR, Jordan and Iraq in the Third Round of the 2014 FIFA WORLD CUP BRAZIL ™ ASIAN QUALIFIERS

SINGAPORE, 31 July 2011: Preliminary Draw for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™

The Preliminary Draw for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ was held in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday 30 July 2011.

Singapore, having defeated Malaysia with a 6-4 aggregate over two legs earlier this month were in Pot 4 of the Asian Qualification Zone (Third Round) along with Thailand, Indonesia, Korea DPR and Lebanon.

Brazil’s legendary Zico along with rising star Lucas from Sao Paolo were on hand to conduct the ASIAN Zone draw and decide the fate of how things would unfold over in third round.

As the draw took shape, Singapore was picked and grouped with China PR, Jordan and Iraq in Group A.

Also in the spotlight was the intercontinental play-off draw which paired Asia’s representative with their South American counterpart while the CONCACAF representative will take on a team from the OCEANIA.

Group A

1. CHINA PR

2. JORDAN

3. IRAQ

4. SINGAPORE

‎

Fixture Details

Match day 1 (2 Sep 2011): China vs Singapore
Match day 2 (6 Sep 2011): Singapore vs Iraq
Match day 3 (11 Oct 2011): Singapore vs Jordan
Match day 4 (11 Nov 2011): Jordan vs Singapore
Match day 5 (15 Nov 2011): Singapore vs China
Match day 6 (29 Feb 2012): Iraq vs Singapore

Useful Details

-       A total of 20 Asian countries will participate in Round Three

-       The 20 countries were draw into five groups consisting four teams each

-       ASIAN ZONE Draw was picked by Brazil legend Zico and Sao Paolo’s rising star Lucas

-       ASIAN ZONE Round Three matches are foreseen to be held between 2 September 2011 to 29 February 2012.

-       Asia have 4.5 slots for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™

-       Group winner and runners-up from all five groups will advance to the fourth round

-       Teams that did not register for the Preliminary competition – Brunei Darussalam, Guam and Bhutan

Photo and media information courtesy of FAS...

LATW CREW: our fun and friendly side!

So who are we actually?

LATW Crew was formed early this year to better the kind of support the Lions will receive and provide an avenue for other Singapore fans to come and show their true support. It was formed when the time Singapore football was facing one of its lowest point and at a time when almost everyone gave up in Singapore football. And yes, that is the kind of supporters we are. Win, lose or draw, we are all here to stay and are proud to declare that we are Singapore through and through.

There is a Lion in every one of you and if you are with the LATW Crew, you can let it all out!

As much as we are "havoc" or "fanatic" or "rowdy", we too have a softer side.

We respect authorities and have the ideal aim to forge a cooperation with the FAS, the official fan club and all other stakeholders of Singapore football.

Most importantly we value friendship, brotherhood and ultimately, respect.

At the same time, everyone is welcomed to contribute in one way or another be it from making banners or creating songs.

At the end of the day, we do it not because of ourselves but we do it because we enjoy football and love the team that represents our country, the Lions!

(pictures taken from FAS facebook photo albums)

[ OFFICIAL STATEMENT] - TERIMA KASIH, MALAYSIA!

LATW CREW with Malaysia fans at Bukit Jalil
(photo courtesy of St MUFC facebook photo album)

THANK YOU

The LATW crew, on behalf of the Singaporean contingent at bukit jalil on Thursday, would like to express their sincere gratitude towards the Malaysian auxiliary and riot police for ensuring that the Lions and their fans were never in danger at an emotionally charged event and venue. 

There were instances when bottles or cigarette butts were thrown from the upper tiers onto the players and fans, but the Malaysian police were quickly on hand to arrest the situation, ensuring no harm was caused. 

The police also escorted the fans from the stadium to their buses, forming a protective barrier across 500m of open carpark between us and the Malaysian fans. Additionally, a police escort was provided for our buses until we left Kuala Lumpur. 

We would also like to thank our Malaysian counterparts for their hospitality, and for graciously congratulating the Lions and the fans for the win after hostilities on the pitch has ended. 

We hope that this event and experience will only serve to galvanize the support for football amongst fans both sides of the causeway, and look forward to more passionate encounters between two neighbours steeped in history and tradition.

REGARDS,

MUHAMMAD ALI HAIKAL

MEMBER OF LATW CREW

PART OF THE LATW CONTINGENT TO BUKIT JALIL

Bravery, Class, Resilience ; ALL MADE IN SINGAPORE!

Truly against all odds...

LATW CREW AT ITS BRAVERY BEST at BUKIT JALIL!
(thanks faris and alastair!)

There are a few things in life that I will never forgive myself for. And this is certainly one of them.

I will never, ever in a million years forgive myself for missing this trip with the rest of my crew members from LATW. 

And to those fans and the LATW Crew who went up north to Bukit Jalil, as the founder of the LATW Crew and a proud Singaporean like you and me, I thank you.

I salute you for your bravery in cheering your team on when clearly, you are outnumbered and will be drowned out by the noise of the other 84000 Malaysians at the Bukit Jalil Stadium.

Secondly, tales and stories of the Singapore fans and the Singapore team having to endure some fans who unsportingly threw water bottles, cigarette butts and seriously disrespectful banners and even had our flag "vandalised" have been coming in.

I was not there to witness first hand but I can imagine the anger in many Singapore fans but they choose to keep cool and calm. And with that, I salute you for your class. Class of being respectful and knowing where you stand and that at the end of the day, it is just a game.

Of course, to be fair, many of the members of the LATW Crew had high praises for a lot of Malaysia fans who were sporting enough and gave them a warm welcome as well as to congratulate the Singapore fans after the game for their win. 

And those  Singapore fans  who rushed back home or rushed to the bars to catch the live game with their families and other Singaporeans to support the team from back home, you too deserve my salute.

Even when you can't go to Bukit Jalil, you try to bring Bukit Jalil closer to you. And to those who were at Brewerkz with me and the rest of the LATW Crew singing and cheering for the 90 minutes, well done.

You sang your hearts out as if Bukit Jalil could hear us and at one point in time, I really thought they could!

Class, simply brilliant.

Being one nil down at the cauldron that is of Bukit Jalil, the players fought back. Refused to be cowed. Refused to give in. Refused to disappoint the fans again. 

And what did they do, they hit back. Completely and 100% Singaporean, Shi Jia Yi, struck the cruel blow to level the scoreline to ensure that there was no way back for the Harimau.

Izwan Mahbud was hit left, right, centre, bottom and top, literally, showed that at such tender age, nothing can stop you if you have heart.

Safuwan, Hariss, Juma'at, WOW! 

We may be a small nation but yesterday, we displayed all the kinds of attitude and mentality of a big nation and I certainly hope that it continues. 

It is difficult and unwise to conclude that we are the kings of the world because we certainly are not.

But lets not play down this moment because what we've seen last night was truly amazing.

Against 11 hungry Tigers and 84000 opposing fans armed with patriotic banners, songs and laser pointers to intimidate , our Lions accompanied by 300 Spartan Singaporeans and millions back at home rocking the Lion City, we prevailed. Not even a synchronized form of bicycle kicks can undo our hardwork!

I received an SMS by the team manager of Singapore and my friend, Eugene Loo, shortly after the game. I quote:

Regardless of race, language or religion, We are one united people... and that is the reason we are Victorious...... Majulah Singapura!

Bravery.

Class.

Resilience.

All proudly MADE IN SINGAPORE!

regards,

Arief

PROUD SINGAPOREAN, PROUD MEMBER AND PROUD FOUNDER OF THE LATW Crew.....

*picture taken from FAS facebook page*

Bersatu dan Berseru dengan Semangat yang Baru....

Believe......

What do I know about tactics? What do I know about strategies? What do I know about the best starting XI?

But what I do know and every human being know is heart.

Heart controls your emotions, heart affects how you perform and heart determines whether you succeed or you fail.

Above all, when hearts are united, you will feel stronger. You will feel better and you will somehow believe.

On Thursday night at 8.45pm, for one and a half hours, two nations will stand still.

Two nations so deep in history, so similar in many ways and yet will be worlds apart tomorrow. Culture, water, history and many more have been shared but tomorrow, one will rejoice and one will sleep in agony.

Two footballing circles that are so different. One is rebuilding itself while one is enjoying its recent successes.

And both will collide at an arena that is claimed will shake the opponents to its very core. An opponent that is deemed to be "nothing" without its adopted sons.

Some may call it reality, some may call it mind games but I will leave it to you to decide.

The advantage is with the away team that many have said to be slim enough to be equalized.

But a true professional and a true fan knows that when the game beckons, you will forget all those advantage and treat it like any other ordinary game that you should win.

It is not because it is against your fiercest rivals.

It is not because you need to prove something.

It just boils down to that desire, that competitive spirit to be on top. And that desire for all the talent in the world that you have can never be fulfilled without the heart or the semangat.


When the Lions step on to the pitch just take a glimpse of the symbol placed on your shirt.

That very flag that is emblazoned on the jerseys will give you that extra heart that you need. That extra energy that you require.

When the Lions' fan switch on that T.V back at home, have that faith and belief that those 11 Lions representing you will do you proud.

When I walked down those steps of the My Dinh Stadium a good 7 months ago, I controlled my emotions, my disappointment and at one point in time, my anger.

But I took a step back and looked at my wounded brothers with tears in their eyes and instantly, I forgave them. This, is something that probably many would not know but the Lions that are deemed to have no heart seven months ago, actually do.

They knew they had disappointed the nation. The knew they had disappointed you and me.

But with the belief that some still hold, back then, have slowly rubbed on to many others and this belief must be maintained and sustained for if this belief dies off, then everything will be impossible.

Football is never about life and death. Football is just part of it. A bit part of it in fact.

But football has the power to bring out the best in your character.

Football has the power to make you heroes.

And tomorrow at the Bukit Jalil Stadium, seize that chance to be heroes.

And as for the fans, whether at Bukit Jalil, Brewerkz or any other place in Singapore, you can be part of it too.

For the last time, before the massive game,

Untuk Bangsa dan Negara,
MAJULAH SINGAPURA!


Regards,
Arief
proud member and founder of LATW Crew....

LIONS FAN UNITE! (live gathering for those in Singapore)

LIVE SCREENING AT BREWERKZ

photo by Ko Po Hui

Brewerkz has kindly open up spaces for us to watch the game live and have a good time as fans of the Lions.

Match starts at 8.45pm but some of us will be there earlier at around 7-7.30 pm.

It is located near Clarke Quay and will definitely be convenient for those without private transport.

Click on the link below for the location of the place.

BREWERKZ- RIVERSIDE POINT

* non- alcoholic drinks are also available for our Muslim friends* 

we hope to see you there to support the Lions from home!

From Serbia or From China... YOU'RE WEARING RED JUST LIKE WE ARE!

It is not where you are from BUT how you feel about your home...







( now this is a united front)

Lets face it. We have naturalized players in our team. But deep down, which is more important? Where you are from or how you feel about your country?

I am not going to hide the fact that it would be much nicer if all 100% athletes in our country are born and bred in Singapore but the reality is that at this day and age, in modern times, it is very difficult to do so especially for a country as small as Singapore.

Of course if we have maybe 14 million, 140 million or 1.4 billion people, it would be absurd for us to depend on foreign talent. But a country with just about 4 million citizens, like it or not, if we want to compete, we certainly at one point in time might depend on foreign talent in one way or another may it be a player, a coach, fitness coach, physiotherapist or what have you.

Purely only Singaporeans? I would say difficult.

With that being said, nothing is impossible but the current system and culture of the Singaporean society where success is defined mostly on economic well being where budding footballers have to give up on football to survive, maybe the time is not right yet for us to compete using 100 percent Singaporeans.

Alas, for me and most of Singapore fans would be more concerned about the kind of foreign players we have.

And what I mean by that is how much they love this country and want to give back to it.

Aleksandar Duric, our hero has time and time again proven that he loves this country, the people and wants to give back to his adopted country. And owh, he is not under the FTS but became a citizen after living here for so long.



For Qiu Li, just look at how he celebrated his goal. You can fake everything else but you certainly cannot fake body language. And from his body language after he scored that goal, you just know how much he loves this country and how Singaporean he has become.


Same goes for Jia Yi. Same goes for Farra who with that smashing volley proves why he is the best midfielder in the world! ( referring to our song for our midfield lynchpin, Mustafic Fahrudin!)

Ok, jokes aside.

Point is, the Lions are a united front. You can call us United Nations but we know that we are actually just one United Nation with players of different races, religion, language, having a common goal for the country we love.

Untuk Bangsa dan Negara,
Majulah!

(VIDEO TAKEN FROM YOUTUBE, user:kissbangclap)

[ OFFICIAL STATEMENT] - WE WERE NOT INVOLVED IN SCUFFLE!

LATW CREW is 100% completely AGAINST ANY VIOLENCE!

It has been reported in the Sunday Times that a scuffle broke out between some Malaysian fans and a group of Singapore fans.

It was claimed that the group of Singapore fans were hurling insults at the Malaysian Fans while the Singapore fans claimed that they were hurt by the actions of the opposing team and fans during the game.

Whichever it is true, as the founder of the LATW Crew, I would like to make it clear that in no way was any member of the LATW Crew involved.

We are against any sort of violence and personal insults. During the game, we may be opponents and enemies but outside, we want to show respect and as and when possible, friendship.

We also would like to advice fans to be magnanimous in victory and gracious in defeat.On this note, we would like to extend our appreciation towards the Malaysian supporters who contributed greatly to creating one of the most amazing atmospheres seen in Singapore's recent memory.

We now look forward to a good game of football at Bukit Jalil and hope that a passionate contest between two nations steeped in tradition will not be marred by senseless violence.

I hope, this clears the air and remove all suspicion.

regards,
Arief
founder and proud member of LATW Crew

FANTASTIC WIN BUT IT IS FAR FROM OVER.....

Win reignited many things but do not get carried away......

Firstly, many thanks to all the LATW Crew members, especially the ones that sang their hearts out and the ones that turn up as early as 1pm on Saturday afternoon, a good SIX HOURS BEFORE THE GAME, to put up the banners you saw on the match against Malaysia. YES, it belongs to us, and we are responsible for all that. This is our gift to the Lions and all of Singapore. From the bottom of my heart, I thank all of you!

Secondly, I would like to thank those Malaysian fans who were gracious and were friendly to shake hands and congratulate us after the game. For that, you have my respect. We may be enemies on the pitch but we hope to be fans that have respect for one another.

Thirdly, I would like to thank those FAS personnel who have been understanding and helpful as well to our cause.

Lastly, and the most important, I would like to thank the LIONS. Those brave Lions who had given their 110% percent on the pitch today.

Mustafic, Jiayi, Qiu Li and Duric, your goals were brilliant.

 To Izwan, tough debut but you will learn from this. And who can forget your brilliant save in the first half?

To Juma'at Jantan, you really ran down the wings till you got hurt and we really really are behind you.

And to Ismail Yunos, such a brave lad you are. You had to make that challenge and we know it. Do not feel hard or disappointed at yourself. You have got our backing!

And to the rest of the Lions, you celebrations showed us how much this means to you and the team unity we have at camp. Fantastic!

With that being said, we have not won the tie yet. In fact, it is far from over.

At Bukit Jalil, eventhough LATW may not be able to go over in full force, have the faith and belief that we are there for you.

Do not be intimidated and just focus on the game.

Singaporeans there and at home will try their best to cheer you on.

And for the last time this week,

Untuk Bangsa dan Negara!

Majulah!

regards,
Arief
founder and proud member of LATW Crew...

Matchday : Message to all Singaporean Fans..

Stand up, be counted BUT do not get carried away...

Being a true blue or red supporter means to back your team up and even more so when the chips are down.

Somehow, I think, this game has come a little bit too early for our liking.

Malaysia are the current defending champions of Asean and with their bravery to field youngsters, they deservedly won the title. May not be to our liking but that's the reality.

Singapore football is not experiencing it's lowest low.

The announcement of our return to the Malaysia Cup has divided us but it has come at the most opportune time with this tie coming up.

Nevertheless, what is behind the scenes, I as a fan, shall not say.

But what I can say is that, in this game, you either win it all or lose it all.

So, from a fellow fan to all other fans, I am sure you would want Singapore to do well and qualify by beating our biggest rivals.

That being said, do turn up in red as a basic form of showing your support for your Lions.

You need not actually cheer or sing along but I do hope you can at least clap along or just plainly shout motivational words to the Lions as they take on our biggest rivals.

We need every single Singaporean to be behind the Lions on that night at Jalan Besar Stadium.

This is our home and we have to make it to our advantage.

Try and leave all our divided opinions and thoughts outside the stadium because this game is just too big for us to be divided.

It is not the right time for us to show our differences because all of us at the end of the day want our football to do well.

With that being said, I must say as well that between us and our opponents, what happens on the field MUST STAY on the field.

As far as possible, try not to also go personal and beyond the footballing arena.

At the end of the day, as much as I love football and my country's football, it is never about life and death.

Safety and peace should be the order and common sense MUST prevail.

Whether you are part of the crew or just any other ordinary fan, refrain from getting personal with your abuse and insults. We want to see a clean game and we want to see fans enjoying football and we certainly do not want to see people going overboard that can provoke or spark any violence.

I do hope that as fanatical support Malaysians will bring to the Jalan Besar Stadium, we as host SHOULD BE gracious hosts and hopefully for them to be gracious guests as well.

We are after all part of a bigger ASEAN family and I do hope this rivalry just stays on the pitch.

Come 23rd July at the JBS, I do hope every Singaporean will be supportive of our own team.

For us, We are all from the Lions All The Way, Win or Lose, We all are here to stay!


Regards,
Arief

Proud Member and Founder of the Latw Crew

2 days to match day: A MESSAGE FOR THE PLAYERS AND COACHES

Do your best, that's what we can ask for

To some of you, this may quite possibly be the biggest game in your careers.

To some of you, this may be your chance at redemption.

To some of you, this may be your opportunity to make a name for yourselves.

And certainly to ALL OF YOU, this is a massive game.

At a time when there is so much going on in Singapore football, it really isn't fair for all 20 odd of you to shoulder the weight, hopes and dreams of Singapore football's past, present and future. It really is not fair.

But somehow, life has to go on and in life, not everything will go your way.

You have had your fair share of criticisms from everyone but as long as you stay true to yourselves and have been sincere and working hard all these while, you have nothing to worry. Words are just words and it can kill only if you let it kill you.

I was never a player, never been good at football in fact but all of you are blessed with amazing skills and fitness that I can only dream of.

This is the day that you can use all that and unite the nation. Amazing how just by being at the right place at the right time to make a tackle or tap in a goal can make you an instant national hero. You have the chance to do that while all I can do is just motivate you at the stands.

Come game day, have no fear. Because the Lions have nothing to fear about. We are the Kings in the jungle and this, is our jungle. Jalan Besar is your home and make it truly yours.

Izwan Mahbud ; If you are to play that day, show everyone you have what it takes to make that step up.

Lionel Lewis ; Get well soon and we all pray for you recovery. Do pass on your experience to the younger goalkeepers...

Daniel Bennett ; Super Dan, what more can I say...

Hariss Harun : After missing so many tournaments, it is destiny that you make your name in this game.

Ismail Yunos ; Your injuries have made you better and a more confident player. Believe!


Juma'at Jantan ; I still remember your tears after the game in Hanoi. Now, erase it with a performance in this game.

Mustafic Fahrudin; Rock solid, Mr Dependable...

Shahdan Sulaiman : You are skillful and classy. Your chance to shine as well and keep the faith. You have it in you. Unleash the classy player you are on Saturday.

Shi Jiayi : All these years, your service to the nation has not gone unnoticed. Wo Ai Ni Shi Jiayi

Shahril Ishak : Captain, lead your team to victory. Motivate the lads. Most importantly, you are leading the country and that is the greatest honour.

Qiu Li : Qiu Li, your moments of magic are what we are counting on. Give them one good one!

Aleksandar Duric : Hero, Legend, Role Model... You are everything Aleks. You are Aleksandar The Great!

Isa Halim; You are big, you are hard, you are a Lion!

and to the rest of the Lions; Ridhuan Baharudin, Andrew Tan,  Safuwan Baharudin, Shaiful Esah, Fazrul Nawaz, Afiq Yunos, Ruzaini Zainal, Shukor Zailan, Erwan Gunawan, Delwinder Singh, Andrew Tan, Khairul Nizam....

Believe.... all of you are heroes in our books...

This is the game that eclipses all games.

We, Singaporeans will be behind you.......

Untuk Bangsa dan Negara, Majulah!

regards,
Arief
Proud member and Founder of LATW Crew...

Cubs Crash out but not before making a statement!

Under 15s would have gained valuable experience and respect...

Fresh from their amazing run in their Lion City Cup journey, the team that comprises of Adam Swandi, Sadik Said and Azhar Ramli, whom ironically at 15 are already household names, finished fourth in their recent AFF Under 16 Championship Tournament.

Stunning 5-0 victories over Vietnam and Philippines got everyone buzzing.

Slight dip in the results against Myanmmar did not deter them one bit as they bounced back to beat Cambodia in their final group stage game to qualify for the semi finals.

They lost to eventual champions, Thailand and after taking a one nil lead against Myanmmar, they lost their third place playoff game after a brave performance.

By the way, did I mention that they are one year younger than all of their opponents?

And for that, in spite not being able to catch their action, we should be proud of them!

Gearing Up for the MASSIVE Game....

Lions win 3-2 and LATW warms up...

LATW CREW members hard at work making banners for our players...

On the pitch, the lads did us proud by grinding out the result to help boost confidence.

May not be the best performance but I thought that given all those injury concerns before the game, the players did what they could.

Izwan's two goals were not of his fault but rather some errors in judgement by the defence.

Taiwan showed that they were no pushovers after all and even though this is a mere friendly, I thought the Taiwanese gave the Lions a really good match.

Off it, the LATW crew warmed up and we hope that more people can join us in supporting the Lions we love.

We saw many new faces to sing and cheer along with us irregardless of all our backgrounds and our individual opinions.

That is what the crew is for.

Respect for one another and supporting the same cause, leaving all our individual differences outside the stadium.

Come Saturday, the Lions need our help.

No matter what our opinions are, the crew do hope that it can be left outside the Jalan Besar Stadium.

We need to be united in our front and we need to support the Lions.

On the pitch, irregardless what happens, support the Lions. No matter which player plays, do not once boo them but have faith and belief that they can do well.

When opposing fans arrive, bantering is of course expected but do not go beyond that where it can provoke and incite violence.

No matter how much you "hate" the opponents, lets try to control ourselves and enjoy the football spectacle we are about to witness....

Selfless, Respect and Consideration.

Untuk Bangsa dan Negara,
MAJULAH!

Friendly Games are IMPORTANT TOO, you know!

Sell out against Malaysia but will you be there against Taiwan?

LIONS TRAINING (picture courtesy of Ko Po Hui of Bolasepako)

Within a few hours, the tickets for the game against Malaysia were sold out.

The game is billed as one of the most important clashes in recent history where winner will literally take all in terms of pride, qualification and things that can never be explained with words!

But on Monday night, YOUR Lions will have one last friendly before the tie against Malaysia.

Will you be there for them and give them your support?

LATW surely will.

So, try and take time off after work or school to be there and support the team we love...


Singapore vs Chinese-Taipei International Friendly Match Details:

SINGAPORE, 13 July 2011: Singapore will be taking on Chinese-Taipei in an International friendly which will be played on Monday, 18 July 2011 at the Jalan Besar stadium. Kick off is at 7.30pm.

Match : International Friendly - Singapore vs Chinese-Taipei
Date : Monday 18 July 2011
Time : 7.30pm
Venue : Jalan Besar Stadium

Ticket sale on match day:
$6.00 (Adult) and $1.00 (Student/ Senior Citizen) 
Time/Venue: 6pm / Jalan Besar Stadium, North and South Gate


be there.....

All set and ready to go!

Overnight stay was worth it...

the crew singing after getting our tickets..

It is not so much about being one of the first few to get our hands on the priceless tickets for our Lions' game against Malaysia.

To the LATW Crew, it represents something bigger. Something deeper. Something that we believe that we as fans have a role to play in Singapore football.

If we do win the tie, it is not so much about " We were there to witness".

It is more about  " We were there to support."

If we do lose ( I don't think we will!) , it is not so much about " We paid for our tickets and we are disappointed."

It is more about " We were there to give encouragement and provide the support!"

All the experiences solidified the friendships and bonds between complete strangers.

Strangers in LATW who became brothers.

Brothers who sat and slept on the dirty ground at the peripheries of the Jalan Besar Stadium.

Braving the cold from the rain and the bites from pests.

We were there. We were there to go through the trouble to show that we will do absolutely almost everything to show our support.

It is not only that. We would also sincerely thank the people who help us make this experience at least a little more comfortable for not just the LATW crew but the other fans who queued up overnight.

We would like to thank the people from the FAS who gladly opened up the gates for all to use the stadium toilets and provided security personnel to ensure that safety and welfare of the fans who provided the support are taken care off.

Small gestures like this deserves to be applauded.

It is not about singing praises but more of giving credit where credit is due.

At the end of the day, the fans, the organization, the players and the sponsors are all fighting for the same cause in Singapore football but just from different fronts.

At the end of the day, we will always be there.

A song we sang today goes like this...

" We are all from the Lions All The Way, Win or Lose, WE ALL ARE HERE TO STAY..."

and stay, the LATW Crew will....

P.S. TO THE RESIDENTS WHO STAY AROUND THE AREA, SORRY WE WOKE YOU UP AT 7 THIS MORNING WITH OUR SONGS... but WE MEAN NO HARM AND JUST WANT TO SHOW OUR LOVE FOR THE COUNTRY!

[ breaking news] - BACK IN MALAYSIAN LEAGUE!

News brought divided opinions.... whatever it is, lets just hope and make it work in our favour..




Many have voiced out their excitement of this news. But, many too have voiced their discontent and concerns about this whole issue.

For one, at least, people are now talking back again about Singapore football.

It is promising times but like I said, before execution, lets not try to jump into conclusion. Everyone thought Mr Ganesan was crazy but he made it work the previous time around.

Many thought that "sacking the team" was crazy including myself but I guess it was just a knee jerk reaction after all.

So to be honest, I shall reserve my judgment.

But what I will publically declare as a fan is that I will do all I can to help make it work for our favour.

I will try my very best as a fan and in the humble position I am in to try and generate the interest and help out in any good way I can.

Details and finer specifics of the move are as follows : (as taken from FAS Website)

Increase competitive matches between the two countries

Starting from 2012, over the span of four years, both Associations are seeking to encourage more friendly matches between the National and Youth Teams of both countries to further improve the standard of the game and to foster closer ties. Taking into account the respective international commitments of the FAS & FAM, we hope to see an increase in the number of friendly matches between our teams at all levels.

THE FAM and FAS Series

An FAM and FAS Series which comprises of two tournaments titled the League Champions Challenge and the Cup Winners Challenge will take place annually between the victorious teams of the League and Cup competitions.

The League Champions Challenge will see the champions of the S.League and the Malaysia Super League compete in a home-and-away format while the Cup Winners Challenge will be a home-and-away matchup between the Singapore Cup and Malaysia Cup champions. With the key objective of this MOU between the two nations focused on further improving the standard of football, both Associations have agreed that in the event that the champions of the league or cup is a foreign team, FAS and FAM will select a local team that came in second to participate in this series. 

Malaysian team will play in the S.League from 2012 to 2015

It was also announced that for the first time, a Malaysian team will participate in the S.League from 2012 to 2015. This team will also participate in the League Cup and Singapore Cup.

Singapore team will play in the Malaysian Super League from 2012 to 2015

Also in the partnership, a Singapore team will participate in the Malaysian Super League, FA Cup and Malaysia Cup from 2012 to 2015. This team will comprise of national players below the age of 23, five players above the age of 23 and complimented by the quota of foreign players allowed in accordance to the competition rules.

With these initiatives in place, fans and players alike can look forward to an interesting four years where the two nations will be able to witness exciting and pulsating football in the respective domestic leagues spiced up by the traditional historic rivalry while on the international front, both countries will benefit from the increase in number of matches between the two sides.

FAS President, Mr Zainudin Nordin was pleased with the partnership when he spoke at the press conference. He said: “There is always a special romance between Singapore and Malaysia football. I am pleased with this football partnership and am confident that it will further strengthen our ties with the FAM.

“The key points of this partnership cannot be achieved overnight. It will take days, weeks and even months of planning as we iron out the creases. But I would like to reiterate that these are positive moves. I seek the patience and kind understanding of the media and public while we work round the clock to make it happen. In this regard, FAS and FAM will form a working committee to discuss and agree on all of the operational details and when these are completed, we will host another media briefing to share the details with members of the media.”

Welcoming the partnership, FAM Deputy President, His Royal Highness Tengku Abdullah said “We welcome this move. It certainly gives a positive impact to Malaysia. Especially amongst our youth players. It is a big opportunity for our players to gain exposure in the S.League and at the same time, the Singapore Lions will have the same opportunities in our Malaysian Super League. With this agreement, we hope that this will open the door for many more collaborations in future.

* Note that my reaction to this issue is of MY OWN PERSONAL OPINION as the writter of the LATW BLOG and not of every individual part of the LATW Crew*

But what I do hope is that fans can try and do their very best to help Singapore football and FAS make this work for the development and entertainment level of our very own football.

At the end of the day, after this decision is made, would we want to see our very own countrymen under the name of Singapore Lions being left across the causeway to fend for themselves? I certainly do not want to see that happen and personally I hope, Singaporeans will give the boys our fullest support.

We do this for the Lions, We do this for the country and nobody else!

Knowing Your Lions : PART I (goalkeepers)

Over the next few days, LATW will feature the Lions and introduce you to this very new look team! This preludes to a feature on what YOU CAN DO to help the LIONS!

Goalkeepers : 

The most highly talked about position ever since the injury suffered by first choice Hassan Sunny and then the unfortunate injury to the experienced Lionel Lewis. Yes, one experienced goalkeeper in the S.League would be the natural choice for many fans but lets not concentrate on that. Rather, lets focus and do what we can to support the stand ins...

1. Izwan Mahbud (Courts Young Lions)

The Courts Young Lions custodian shot to fame in the recent Asian Games with brave displays. If not for him, scorelines would have been more devastating. Ever since then, he has shown that he has what it takes with numerous impressive displays for the Courts Young Lions in the S.League. May not have the experience yet but hey, everyone needs to start somewhere right? And why not make a name for yourself in what could probably be the most important game in your career. Bright future for this young custodian especially after reports have claimed that some Australian clubs were actually interested in him.

2. Ridhuan Baharudin (Tanjong Pagar)

What a year for Ridhuan this has been. Again, the former number 3 at Tampines Rovers behind Hassan Sunny and Alimin Muhammad, he has found himself the more regular choice at Tanjong Pagar United. The move possibly helped him get noticed. Has the talent and the potential but on a personal note, lets just support this new Lion. Welcome to the national set up!

3. Lionel Lewis (Home United)

Still, fingers crossed, he could actually be fit against Malaysia. Nothing is yet concluded. Needs no introduction but if 4.5 millions Singaporeans actually pray for his recovery, maybe a miracle can happen? WHo knows?!

Verdict :

Of course, any day, any time, Lionel Lewis is the obvious choice. Against Malaysia in a do or die World Cup QUalifier, it may not actually be the correct time to bring in new inexperienced blood. But if Lionel doesn't make it in time, Izwan would be my choice over Ridhuan and next-in-line, Jasper Chan. The game against Malaysia will definitely be tough. Lets not doubt the abilities of the new keepers. Who knows, on that day, he will turn up to be unbeatable? Lets not jump to conclusion guys!

The Week that Was!

Tales of a certain Uniform Derby and Goalkeeping Issues


Interesting week in Singapore football again... Lets take a look at the things that happened!

1. 10 men Home downs arch rivals SAFFC
We are starting to see why Home were the pre-season favourites for the 2011 S.League. Finally! Not even a Rosman Sulaiman red card can stop them from beating the Warriors in the classic "Uniform Derby". A cracker of a goal from Firdaus Idros in the 83rd minute got many thinking why this lad is not selected in the national team. Well, then again, many youngsters and seasoned campaigners in the S.League and abroad too deserves a call up. But then again, it is all about taking perspectives. Owh, Lionel Lewis is injured by the way!


2. Balestier triumphs!
After what was seen as a wretched run and public hairdryer treatment, Balestier finally wins a game. Yes, even if it is against Tanjong Pagar Utd. Goals from foreigners Kim Young Kwang and new signing, Mark Mcgough gave the Toa Payoh based side all three points.

3.Devastating Young Lions
Their biggest win (scoreline) thus far this season. A sensational Courts Young Lions team defeated Woodlands Wellington by four goals to the good. Khairul Nizam, Safuwan, Faris and new signing Ruzaini Zainal ensured that the travelling away fans went home happy with all three points as the Courts Young Lions proved that their 2-1 win over Etoile the last time was no fluke!

4. Farewell goal from Shahdan Sulaiman!
In what was to be his last game for his beloved Tampines Rovers this season, Shahdan Sulaiman capped it off with a goal for the club he supported as a boy. Now drafted into the Courts Young Lions squad, Shahdan could actually be facing the club he left in his first game for his new team. The moves to bring in players into the CYL side definitely has its merits for the SEA Games but then again, from a personal point of view, I don't think it is really fair for the clubs that have been paying them and unearthing these gems, especially if the side is chasing for title honours.

5. National goalkeeping issues!
Why isn't Shahril Jantan selected? That is the burning question in local football nowadays. Instead, coach Raddy is going for youngsters who don't have any international caps between them over someone who has and on top of that with him Asian Champions League experience as well as the tag as the most decorated player in the S.League in terms of title honours. And owh yes, he is also the captain of the 8-times S.League champions. I am equally puzzled as well. But then again, sometimes, what we don't know, we'd rather not say. At the end of the day, as much as we do not agree with the selections ( many will) , we have to support Raddy and the boys come 23rd and 28th July. And that includes the man who will be guarding the goalpost for the Lions....

Singapore vs Malaysia : TICKET DETAILS!

Priority goes to Singaporeans....

SINGAPORE, 08 July 2011: Singapore will be taking on Malaysia in the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ Qualifying Round Two match that will be played on Saturday 23 July 2011 at the Jalan Besar stadium.

Due to the heavy demand for tickets to this match, fans are advised to purchase their tickets early.

Match Details

Match : Singapore vs Malaysia

Date : Saturday 23 July 2011

Time : 7.30pm

Venue : Jalan Besar Stadium

Ticketing Details

The details of ticket sales for the match are as follows:

Early Bird Special 

In order to show appreciation to Singaporeans and permanent residents for their unwavering support for local football, only Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents will be entitled to purchase the early bird tickets. Each person is only entitled to purchase four tickets upon showing your NRIC card at the sales counter.

Date    : Saturday 16 July 2011 and Sunday 17 July 2011

Time   : 8am to 5pm

Venue : Jalan Besar Stadium, South Gate

Price : S$15.00 (Grandstand), S$7.00 (Gallery) and $3.00 tickets for gallery seating only (Primary, Secondary, ITE, JC Students Only/ Senior Citizen 60 years old and above) *

*Students and Senior Citizens have to produce their concession passes at the sales counter.

**Pre- Match Sales (subject to ticket availability)

Date    : Thursday 21 July 2011 and Friday 22 July 2011

Time   : 12pm to 5pm

Venue : Jalan Besar Stadium, South Gate

Price : S$18.00 (Grandstand), S$10.00 (Gallery) and $3.00 tickets for gallery seating only (Primary, Secondary, ITE, JC Students Only/ Senior Citizens 60 years old and above) 

**Open to Public

***Match Day Sales (subject to ticket availability)

Date    : Saturday 23 July 2011

Time   : 5pm onwards

Venue : Jalan Besar Stadium, South Gate

Price : S$18.00 (Grandstand), S$10.00 (Gallery) and $3.00 tickets for gallery seating only (Primary, Secondary, ITE, JC Students Only/ Senior Citizens 60 years old and above) 

***Open to Public 

Malaysian fans who wish to purchase tickets for this match are advised to approach the Football Association of Malaysia for ticketing details

[ information taken from FAS website]

Squad to face Malaysia.....

Coach Raddy names his 25-man squad to face Malaysia!


Latest is that Lionel Lewis might miss the clash against Malaysia due to an injury.

So that is two top keepers out. And as it stands, I am not too sure whether a replacement keeper will be called up.

Then name on everyone's minds is certainly Shahril Jantan. But then......

But one thing is for sure. Whoever is in the squad, come D-Day, LATW will support him and the team.

*before Lionel's injury...

2014 FIFA WORLD CUP BRAZIL™ ASIAN QUALIFIERS ROUND 2 PLAYERS LIST 

S/N	Full Name	DOB	Pos	Club	Caps	Goals
1	Tan Wee Tat Andrew	18 May 1987	FW	Balestier Khalsa FC	0	0
2	Hariss S/O Harun	19 Nov 1990	MF	Courts Young Lions	16	0
3	Mohamad Izwan Bin Mahbud	14 Jul 1990	GK	Courts Young Lions	0	0
4	Mohamed Ruzaini Bin Zainal	17 Oct 1988	MF	Courts Young Lions	2	0
5	Mohammad Afiq Bin Yunos	10 Dec 1990	DF	Courts Young Lions	2	0
6	Muhammad Khairul Nizam Bin Mohammad Kamal	25 Jun 1991	FW	Courts Young Lions	2	0
7	Muhammad Safuwan Bin Baharudin	22 Sep 1991	DF	Courts Young Lions	4	0
8	Shahdan Bin Sulaiman	09 May 1988	MF	Courts Young Lions	3	0
9	Hamqaamal Shah Bin Hamzah	05 Sep 1986	DF	Gombak United FC	2	0
10	Ismail Bin Yunos	24 Oct 1986	DF	Gombak United FC	13	0
11	Juma'at Bin Jantan	23 Feb 1984	DF	Home United FC	18	0
12	Lewis Lionel	16 Dec 1982	GK	Home United FC	68	0
13	Mohammad Isa Bin Abdul Halim	15 May 1986	MF	Home United FC	32	0
14	Qiu Li	06 Jun 1981	FW	Home United FC	5	0
15	Shi Jiayi	02 Sep 1983	MF	Home United FC	48	5
16	Mohammad Shahril Bin Ishak	23 Jan 1984	MF	Medan Chiefs FC	82	5
17	Bennett Daniel Mark	07 Jan 1978	DF	SAF FC	96	6
18	Erwan Gunawan Bin Suherman Abu	20 Mar 1987	FW	SAF FC	0	0
19	Fazrul Nawaz S/O Shahul Hameed	17 Apr 1985	FW	SAF FC	43	3
20	Mohamad Shaiful Bin Esah Nain	12 May 1986	DF	SAF FC	9	0
21	Aleksandar Duric	12 Aug 1970	FW	Tampines Rovers FC	32	14
22	Mustafic Fahrudin	17 Apr 1981	MF	Tampines Rovers FC	54	6
23	Shukor Bin Zailan	08 Dec 1985	MF	Tampines Rovers FC	2	0
24	Delwinder Singh S/O Ranjit Singh	05 Aug 1992	DF	Tanjong Pagar United FC	0	0
25	Muhammad Ridhuan Bin Barudin	23 Mar 1987	GK	Tanjong Pagar United FC	0	0