UTP Under-21 Sukan Perak Trial Selection

It is announced that a selection to select the players to represent UTP Under 21 football team for Sukan Perak will be held on this week.

The details are announced as below:

Date: 25 February 2009 (Wednesday)

Time: 5.30 p.m

Venue: UTP Sports Complex

Those who are 21 years old and below are eligible to join the selection.

See you there.

Latest Results: Week 2

Sona 2-1 Nagasakti FC

Onitsuka Tigers 2-2 Urawa Reds

Gen 06 0-0 Avatar

Galacticos 2-1 Azzuri
Croconile 2-0 Apocalypto
WHO 3-0 Rajawali

Here's the standings after the conclusion of Week 2

And here's the results and the next fixture for Week 3.

Full coverage of Week 2 will be updated soon. Stay tuned for the full coverage of Week 2, as soon as we receive the full report from the organizer.

Preview Week 2

The battle continues for the spot in knockout round as 12 teams will square off against each other in Week 2. Let's take a look on the matches and prediction.

Match 7: Sona vs Nagasakti FC

Sona is back with the new spirit after gaining some good experience on two previous seasons. They are facing a new team, Nagasakti FC, which is formerly known as Cantana. It is not known about the strength of Nagasakti FC, but it would surely a puzzle to solve for Sona and other teams in Group C

Prediction: Experience does matters. A win to Sona. 3-1

Match 8: Onitsuka Tiger vs Urawa Reds FC

The most awaited match of all. The runner-up of 2008 versus the semi-finalist of 2007. The Tigers have fully reinforced their team after their final heartbreak by adding some strikeforce. However, their preparations were hampered with injuries to Enzo and talismanic striker, Topek and the defender Bean, leaving the player-manager, Ahmad Sollehin limited choices for the team.

As for Urawa Reds FC, their preparations is also on halt with the rumoured knee injury of their left-back, Muhammad Noor Fadhli. However, with some additions to the team, they would not be a pushover to the Tigers.

Prediction: Too close to call. A tough fight. 1-1 draw

Match 9: Galacticos vs Azzuri

The Galacticos finally can test up themselves whether they can cope without the help of Apocalypto when they face the Champions, Azzuri.

As for Azzuri, another draw in this match would give them a devastating blow to their defence of the title.

Prediction: I think it would be another draw for Azzuri. 2-2

Match 10: Gen 06 vs Avatar

Another awaited battle where two fast-paced teams will test out each other in Group B

Avatar, fresh from their demolition of Jupan FC with 4-0 score, are ready to terrorize Gen 06 defensive line. Led by their captain, Mohd Ridzwan Mohd Hanaffi, Avatar would be more than ready for another onslaught for another victim.

However, as for Gen 06, they won't simply give a pushover to Avatar, as they have Syed Mohd Amin, as their strike force to tore down Avatar's defensive line.

Prediction: Both teams played fast and speed game. However, it would be more favoured on Avatar due to their experience. A 2-1 win to Avatar

Match 11: Croconile vs Apocalypto

A match that wants to be avoided as possible by any teams.

Croconile, with the bad reputation that tarnish UTP League last season, might making some omen to mend their temperament when they face Apocalypto on Sunday. It is not known about their strategy, however, the lack of speed might be a big disadvantage despite their physical advantage

Apocalypto, fresh from their win of Evo with 2-0 score, are facing some last-minute injuries, especially their left-back, Zainal Abidin and their midfielder, Mohd Ehsan Sharmin who has been ruled out for this match

Prediction: Croconile would have to buck up their speed or they are on their way to be beaten by quick wingers and fast-attacking football by Apocalypto. A win 2-0 win to Apocalypto.

Match 12: WHO vs Rajawali

Both teams have almost similar fate as their luck was robbed at the last minute of the game.

WHO was robbed from their victory by the last minute goal against Azzuri, while Rajawali, totally lost all points in the space of 5 minutes to ACE.

On Sunday, both teams are trying to make some points here. Losing this match would virtually close their chances to qualify for the next round.

Prediction: WHO is much improving compared to last two seasons, but Rajawali have the same strength as they play precision football. A 1-1 draw.

Week 1: Who Ties Azzuri, Avatar Roars, Rajawali Got ACEd

UTP Soccer League 2009 kicks off with tales of surprises and upsets. 6 matches were being played last week with 2 matches from Group A & B and 1 match from Group C and D

On Friday, Azzuri got an early wake-up call as the champions were only handed a point after drawing with WHO FC with the score of 1-1. Trailed behind during the first half by a goal from Ahmad Izzat, Azzuri needed a last-gasp minute by Marut Damkaew to score, leaving WHO FC missing their lost two points in the last minute.

On the same day, Facebook FC also being handed a shock after drew 0-0 with the newcomer, Borneo FC. Despite a lot of attacks being launched by the Eastenders, they failed to break the goal post, safeguarded by 46-year-old veteran, Badarolzaman Ramli. Hilary Stephen also being influential in making attacks for Borneo FC, only to have Badarolzaman to stop his efforts.

On Saturday, the battle of the July 06 batch pits Apocalypto FC and Evo FC. All emotions of friendship were being put behind as both teams going for a win. Apocalypto leads in the 5th minute by a superb free-kick by Mohd Farhan Hafizuddin. Evo FC also managed to get some close chances when Hafreez Aizat and Amirul Asraf was not being marked, only to find defenders to stop them. Muhammad Muaz ends Evo's fairytale with 2nd goal, ending the match with 2-0 to Apocalypto.

Meanwhile, Avatar sends a strong warning to other teams that they are ready to take the title after demolishing Jupan FC 4-0. Despite Jupan FC's strong efforts to prevent the flash attack of Avatar players, it seems that Avatar is no match to Jupan. Syed Aminuddin which was bought from Golden Nugget leads the Avatar destruction with 2 goals to his name, and Muhammad Sholeh and Mohd Hazizuddin netted one each.

On Sunday, ACE staged a great comeback after coming from behind to defeat Rajawali 3-2. After being level 1-1 during half time, Rajawali takes the lead after a free kick being blocked by the keeper and Mohd Shaiful Anuar manages to squeeze in the ball through the net. 5 minutes before the end, ACE strikes back with a marvellous chip from Asyraf bin Ja'afar. As it seems a draw for both teams, a defensive blunder costs dearly for Rajawali as Quailid Rezza comes from bench to strike a goal in the last minute, giving them all three points with the score of 3-2

On the other action, Damotheran's unexpected transfer to Azzuri doesn't prevent Rasta to perform on their usual form. Facing Aurora FC, Rasta managed to get a draw against the new rejuvenated team with the score of 1-1. Rasta's goal was scored by Haridass while Mohd Shaifful Izzuan puts the goal for Aurora

With the end of the first week, the fight for the top two spots seems too close to call. Below is the tables, top scorers and the next fixtures for Week 2.

Till then, we see you again with the next update on Week 2.

Preview Week 1

After all trainings, friendly matches and some injuries that disrupt the teams' preparation for 2009 season, the season's kick-off is just hours away from now.

Anyway, for this week's review, Mr. Asyraf Fadzlee @ TPK, 07' & 08' season organizer who is now the player-manager of Evo to give his preview about all teams for this week matches

Hello guys, it's been a long time since last season made its curtain call with Azzuri retaining their title after beating Onitsuka Tiger 3-0. Anyway, we would have 12 teams to start the first week of 2009 season including my team as well

Match 1: Azzuri vs W.H.O

It's quite a close call for this match as Azzuri was handed a shock draw with Jupan FC, which is a new team from 90's babies. I don't know from which batch Jupan FC is, but seriously, if Azzuri didn't strengthen their defense and sharpen their attacking options, problems would become worse for the team

As for W.H.O, a one-year break from UTP League hopefully would create a new and rejuvenated W.H.O. Any hopes on them? I still have faith as they are mentally prepared to give their best shot for their final season of UTP League

Player To Watch: Nasmee Samang. This Thai-lad is instrumental for their defeat of Onitsuka Tiger. Playing as a defender but may increase options as a striker, he could give a threat to W.H.O  

Mohd Izdan Zulizzi. He's has a reputation in futsal as his team, OmniSlash was previously the champion for MILO Open in 2007. Can he emulate that feat in a big-size scale field?

Prediction: I would call for a draw, but the match would be exciting as expected. 1-1

Match 2: Borneo FC vs Facebook FC

Borneo FC have the potential to give a challenge to other teams in Group D. After a convincing draw with Evo and Galacticos after left behind during the first half, their fightback was simply impressive.

Facebook FC? Formerly known as Staff FC. With Abg Lan is rumoured to not playing with the team anymore, I can't even predict how Mr. Fuad would deal with goalkeeping options. Or maybe those old-timers are playing the psychological warfare against other teams :P

Player To Watch: Hilary Stephen. A Sabahan right-wing performed marvellously during friendly matches and I bet that if he keeps improving, he could become a UTP material in no time

Mohd Fatimie Irzaq Khamis. A goal-scoring machine, but he should beware and hope that no more cards would be given to him this season.

Prediction: Borneo FC is consist of a mixed of new and experienced breed. But Facebook are all old-timers and experienced in football for years. A win to Facebook FC. 2-1

Match 3: Apocalypto  vs Evo

This match would be among the most exciting match, not because one of the teams is my team, it's because the batchmates are facing each other during this match.

Apocalypto is not dead yet eventhough most of their youngsters break-up and create a new team called Galacticos. However, they managed to acquire some good strikers and defenders. Even though, the team seems lack chemistry among themselves.

Evo has underwent massive changes. With some new inclusion of good players, as well as commandable performance against Borneo FC and Rajawali, the only thing that concerns me is their stamina and fitness level

Player To Watch: Mohd Farhan Hafizuddin Abdullah. Known as Badet, his individual skills are outstanding. A dangerous free-kick taker, unfortunately he's lack of speed as he likes to play slow

Mohd Firdaus Rahim. He may be a disadvantage due to his physical size. However, his deadly set-pieces contributes to a lot of goals during friendlies. It's best to avoid free-kicks while he's around

Prediction: I can't avoid the sentiment of batchmates, but a game is a game and both teams have same quality, same strength and same speed as well. Only little luck prevents them from a win. A decent draw. 0-0

Match 4: Avatar vs Jupan FC

Avatar oh Avatar. Some players deserted to Borneo FC including their goalkeeper Pet. With most of players extending their contract for the final year, can they overcome their disappointment due to losing to Rohirrim last season?

As for Jupan FC. Impressive. A draw against Azzuri signals that they could pose a significant threat to other teams in UTP League.

Player To Watch: Mohd Ridzwan Mohd Hanaffi. The talismanic captain of Avatar. Can he control the team and capture the title in third time lucky?

Prediction: A tough fight for both teams, but I have to give a win to Avatar due to their experience in the league. 3-1

Match 5: Rajawali vs ACE

Rajawali can pose a threat to other teams. With the new bloods playing for the first time in the league, plus the physical advantage, they may pose some dangerous threat to other

ACE. The old Equippo Daravoda. Will the name change bring more luck to them, or it's just a change?

Player To Watch: Abdullah Sobri. The former EVO player is known with his individual skills. But can he utilise his individual skills after he fail to do so while with Evo?

Prediction: Let's make it a draw since both teams seems to have equal grounds to compete against each other. 2-2

Match 6: Aurora vs Rasta

Aurora has played what has been declared by their manager, the best first-half performance against Urawa Reds. But, can they repeat their performance against Rasta?

Rasta FC. I don't know how Damo would arrange his team this year as I don't have any infos about performances during friendlies. But hopefully, they have the right players, and right tactics as well

Player To Watch: Mohamad Najib Fathie. The only one who scored for Aurora in UTP League last season. Is he back again to repeat the same feat?

Damotheran. Who else Rasta can rely on other than him? Unless he gets some new back-up after Chandran's graduation, he could be helpless in the middle of the field

Prediction: Aurora is improving at times, but Rasta better keep an eye on the surge. A win to Aurora. 2-1

Ozawa Dragons Filled The Void

Tronoh, PERAK, 13 February 2009 - It is now confirmed that Ozawa Dragons has been picked by UTP Soccer League organizer to replace Nissa FC in the 2009 season.

This news has been confirmed by the organizer through an email to UTPLeague few days ago.

With the inclusion of Ozawa Dragons, this is the second time in a row when a replacement has been called to fill in a slot due to the withdrawal of other teams after Evo was chosen to fill the void last season.

The question is can they avoid the bad luck that Evo endured last season?

UTP Soccer League 2009: Another Group Of Death For Onitsuka Tiger

Finally the puzzle about the date of first kick-off of UTP Soccer League 2009 has finally being solved, as well as the groupings for 2009 season has been decided last night during the manager's meeting which was held in UTP Co-curriculum Unit.

However, the early shock has been delivered to UTP Soccer League as Nissa FC, last year's semi finalist has announced that they would not taking part in 2009 season. An effort has been made to bring the replacement that will fill in Nissa FC's place.

Onitsuka Tigers, last year's runner-up has been given another torrid time in their quest to seek revenge from Azzuri as they have been placed AGAIN with Staff Facebook FC, formerly known as Staff FC and Urawa FC, 2007 season's semi-finalist in Group D. Another team that also with the teams in the Group of Death is Borneo FC, a new team consist of East Malaysian players. The replacement will soon taking Nissa FC's place in Group D

As for Azzuri, the two-time champions might having lesser problems compared to Onitsuka. Azzuri have been placed alongside W.H.O, Rajawali, Ace and Galacticos. Ace which is formerly known as Equippo Daravoda hoping that their change of name would turn their luck this time. Galacticos, which are the breakway team of Apocalypto might mount serious challenges to Azzuri this year. Rajawali is a new team where their performance are not well known but might create a serious threat to all teams in Group A.

Long-time best performer, Avatar placed themselves in Group B. Waiting them in the group are Jupan FC, Aurora which are formerly known as Arema FC, Gen 06 which would try to overcome their disappointment after being eliminated by Apocalypto United and Rasta is waiting them again, seeking revenge after losing 1-0 in last year's match.

Apocalypto will have their chances hanging in balance as they have been placed in Group C, with most of the seasoned teams, such as Evo, Sona, Croconile and a new team, Cantana. The favourite teams to qualify from Group C are unpredictable as all teams have equal chances to qualify.

Anyway, teams have start their training, friendlies have been planned all over the weekend. What's waiting for these 20 aspiring teams are who will reign supreme in 2009 season

Will Azzuri score a hattrick of titles this season? Or any of the teams can end Azzuri's reign? Might Onitsuka gains revenge after their heartbreak final last season? Or maybe new teams come to the new level and equalling Onitsuka marvellous performance.

All these questions will be answered when UTP Soccer League 2009 kicks off on 13 February 2009. So, for avid fans, get your cheersquad, your banners and make sure your voice are fully energized because all these teams would make you scream out lungs.

See you there on 13 February 2009!