KUALA LUMPUR — The third edition of the Datuk Haji Hamidin Mohd Amin-XMail FC Veterans 9s tournament saw Navashini Ipoh emerge as champions after defeating Navashini Kuala Kangsar in the final.
Organised by Kuala Lumpur XMail Veterans FC, in collaboration with local partners Ipoh Friday Club and supported by the Ipoh City Council, the tournament featured eight invited teams in each category competing in the one-day event.
Leading up to the final showdown, Navashini Ipoh had to overcome a tough challenge to defeat Ipoh City Hall 1-0, while Navishini Kuala Kangsar secured a 2-0 victory over Lintau FC in the semifinals.
The defending champions, XMail FC, finished in 7th place, just one spot above debutants Bacolod United, a Philippines-based team.
Dave Javellana, the Philippines FA grassroots development director and a player for Bacolod United, expressed his surprise at the level of competition showcased by Malaysian local clubs and vowed to return next year with better preparation.
“We were taken by surprise by how fast and fit the Malaysian players were playing on a full-sized pitch.
“We are used to playing on half a field, and most of our players were above 50. Maybe next year, we will field an Under-16 team too,” said Dave.
Meanwhile, in the under-16 tournament, Ipoh City Hall triumphed over co-host Ipoh Friday FC, with Mohammad Aisy Amran emerging as the tournament’s top scorer.
The second goal was scored by Mohamad Amirul Danmish Mohamad Kamsul.
S. Tharaniswaran of Ipoh Friday was named the Man of the Match for his relentless efforts.
Navashini Ipoh received a prize of RM2,500 in the Veterans 9s category, while Navashini Kuala Kangsar brought home the runners-up prize of RM1,500.
The third and fourth-placed teams received RM600 and RM300, respectively, along with coveted medals.
The inaugural edition was held in Kuala Kubu Bharu in 2021, followed by Taiping last year. — September 21, 2023