The Malaysian football calendar came to a glorious conclusion last weekend, as Pahang seized the Malaysia Cup title in dramatic fashion, triumphing over Johor DT 5-3 on penalties. The final was a sensational spectacle, and there’s little doubt that it reinforces the fact that entertainment is very much obtainable within the local football scene.
But beyond that, this was also a season where stars and talents were discovered. New foreign players impressed, while various other local stars performed admirably in their own teams, including the ones who made the move over to a new side as well. Over the next few days, FourthOfficial.com will be publishing a series of features, asking renowned football commentators and our own team of editors to shed light on their opinion regarding specific players who were absolutely outstanding throughout the season, including the Super League/Premier League, FA Cup as well as the Malaysia Cup. To kick start the series, let’s begin with the Goalkeepers!
Roshan Narayan (Chief Editor at Large – FourthOfficial.com)
Pick: Khairul Azhan (Pahang)
“I’ve really enjoyed watching Khairul Azhan play, I think he has an incredible ability to read the game, and to me, has been largely influential in Pahang’s decent defensive record. Dollah Salleh will definitely be keeping an eye on him for the Suzuki Cup squad. I’d even make him the first choice goalkeeper.”
Keeshaanan Sundaresan (Chief Editor – FourthOfficial.com)
Pick: Farizal Marlias (Selangor)
“Farizal for me, fits the criteria for this award, due to the influence he’s had on Selangor since making the move. Though the Red Giants weren’t too efficient in the Malaysia Cup, Farizal’s consistent performances in the Super League was unquestionable. Look at their stats, they had the best defensive record in the league.”
Abbas Saad (Ex-Australian international, TV Host)
Pick: Farizal Marlias (Selangor)
“I think Farizal was spectacular this year. He was incredibly composed, always cool under any form of pressure. But more importantly, he played a massive part in Selangor’s Super League campaign, where they finished second. Also had the most clean sheets in the league.”
Aysha Ridzuan (Football Writer, Columnist – FourthOfficial.com)
Pick: Farizal Marlias (Selangor)
“Selangor’s strong run in the Super League was due in no small part to Farizal’s form in between the sticks. The thing I admire the most about him is his ability to stay composed in one-on-one situations. And Selangor’s defensive record speaks for itself as well. Definitely my pick for the best goalkeeper of the year.”
Ross Yusof (Football Commentator, Radio/TV Host)
Pick: Al Hafiz Hamzah (Johor DT)
“He has been absolutely consistent over the past one year, performing incredibly well in the Super League as well. But more than that, it was because of his performances that Johor DT eventually won the league and got to the final of the Malaysia Cup. Unfortunately, they weren’t too successful there.”
Craig Morraies (Football Commentator, Radio Pundit)
Pick: Farizal Marlias (Selangor)
“In the period where Selangor were winning game after game by 1-0, it was Farizal who was often the reason for it (besides the odd Paolo Rangel goal). Penalty saves, and shot stopping were aplenty as Selangor racked up wins. Due to this, he even managed to oust Khairul Fahmie as Malaysia’s number 1.
Scott Ollerenshaw (Ex-Australian international, TV Host)
Pick: Khairul Azhan (Pahang)
“This was a bit of a no-brainer for him. Khairul Azhan has been absolutely stunning this year, particularly in the Malaysia Cup. And when you pull off a big save in a big final that allows your team to win the cup, then that’s a testament to your strength and character.”
What do you think about the names that were presented on the list? Do you agree or disagree with them? Let us know by engaging with us on Facebook and Twitter! Or alternatively, drop a comment below!
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