Resurrecting Malaysian Soccer

After two humiliating defeats at the hands of China and Uzbekistan, I wonder, how much lower Malaysian soccer could go? The first to go have to be the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). With its rusty, unprofessional and inefficient running and implementation of the country's state of soccer, even diehard loyal soccer supporters are beginning to shun games that involve the Malaysian national team. Only around 2,000 loyal supporters saw Malaysia reduce Iran to a 2-0 victory at the Bukit Jalil Stadium a few days ago. Reports said that even the Iranian supporters outnumbered the local diehards.

FAM must go! Get a professional line-up. Employ those who have donned national colours with pride and without anticipating monetary rewards. Also, those who have the proven track records. Not some politician who does not know the difference between the 3-5-2 formation to the 4-3-3 formation. Better late than never. Start training young lads the basics of soccer even before their bodies have fully grown. Get proper dietary food and supplements for those who show some promise.

Malaysia are still way, way back in producing soccer players from grass roots level. This level is where everything begins. Once these children reach adulthood, many basic skills that are not mastered when they are young are left unrealized.

There are differences between a fan and a supporter. A fan just sees his favourite team in action on the television. The cost might be a glass of iced tea or Coke. Whereas, a loyal supporter takes the trouble to go to the stadium, pay for the match ticket, shout until he loses his voice, spurs his team on and cry when his team gets defeated. You don't get plenty of supporters these days. So, the ball is in your court. Are you just a fan, or are you a loyal die hard supporter?