DPMM FC  were left crying in the rain after they succumbed to their fifth defeat of the season ,falling 2-1 to Hougang Utd in the league last night.

Contested at the Hougang Stadium,Azhar Sarudin gave the hosts the lead after a good solo effort to find the back of the net in the 34th minute.

Brunei's only professional club equalised six minutes later through Sahrolrizal Rahman after he pounced a rebound from a corner kick.

Hougang were winning the aerial battle with their players having the height advantage.

The game winner for hougang came on the hour mark with Thomas Beattie scoring on the rebound after a freekick.

DPMM tried to even things up by putting on Portuguese striker Joao Moreira, wo is not at 100 per cent, in the 72nd minute for Azean Salleh.

"It was a very tough game for us.I thought we controled most of the first half but things changed in the seconds as we were put under pressure with all the freekicks given to our opponents," said the head coach after the loss.

"We did create some chances of our own but the Hougang keeper, Fadhil Salim had a very good game. 

"Overall our opponents looked more experienced fielding 4 imports on the pitch while we had only one,"he said.

"We also clearly missed Hj Subhi Abdilah in the match but I couldn't have asked more from the team.I thought we deserved at least a draw," continued the Croatian.

The brunei side will play their next game against the winless Court Young Lions on May 25 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas. 

DPMM FC can move to third in the Singapore League tonight, but their coach insists what the talk in the dressing room has been about.

Last season's S-League's runners-up are currently fifth in the league, and face Hougang Utd at the Hougang Stadium knowing that a win will see them jump above Home United and Tanjong Pagar Utd.

DPMM FC sacked three imports last week but their dismissal seems to have helped the team, with their confidence-boosting 3-2 comeback win against Home Utd last Friday a high-point of a season that has been marked by underachievement. 

Their love-point was probably their home game against Hougang two months ago, when DPMM threw away a two-goal lead and squandered two penalties to draw in one of the most dramatic games in their 3-year S-League history.

Vjeran Simunic though believes things have changed since the that match on March 1.

"Our first game was different.Hougang are a string team but we are confident now," said the DPMM coach.

"It will be a big game for us tomorrowbut I'm not thinking about that(going to tird).

"Being third is also not what we've been talking about,"

"What I want is for us to continue playing well,and I expect the younger players like Adi,Faka and Hendra to keep with their good form.

"I am also happy that Salleh and Rol(Sahrolrizal)are back playing defence.

Like I have always said,DPMM are a team of 18 players...Not just one," stressed Simunic.

DPMM will eb without Hj Md Subhi Abdillah Bakir, who picked his fourth yellow card against Home,but will be able to welcome back Adi's brother Shahrazen- who sat the last game out due to a hamstring strain.

The team's top-scorer with 6 goals,Portuh=guese striker Joao Moreira is still injured wuth a muscle pull, though Simunic said," We might put him on the ebnch maybe he'll play the last 10 minutes."

After five losses and one draw in the first6 games, Hougang have turned their seasonaround after winning their past 3 games under new coach Johana Johari.

They beat Harimau Muda 3-1 on April 26,Hoem Utd 1-0 three days later and Young Lions 1-0 last Tuesday.

Tales Ricarte Dos Santos dramatic 90th minute goal helped DPMM FC snap a two goal losing streak with a 3-2 win over Home United last night, the Brazilian also scoring the opener and providing an assist for Adi Said in a career-defining match which also saw him pull off a goal-line clearance.

Home looked to have dealt DPMm another potentially fatal blow at home after Jodan Webb hit a 87th minute equaliser when pouncing on a mix-up in defence to slot the ball into an empty net, but striding confidently forward, Santos had other ideas.

Substitute Ak Kakharazzi Pg Hasan's volley hit inside the right post and rolled nto the path of Santos, who calmly side-footed the ball past the outstretched hands of goalkeeper Shahril Jantan-going on to celebrate wildly with the rest of the team and the fans at the hassanal Bolkiah NAtional Stadium.

DPMM entered the game ahving lost their two last home matches,and their scoring touch along with it, so Santos couldn't have picked a better time to produce his best performance of the Singapore League season.

Perhaps more crucially, the match marked the first time the team took to the field after releasing the import trio of striker Ivan Bosnjak, midfielder Stephen Auvray and defender Dino Drpic on Wednesday-and the club's only import Portuguese striker Joao Moreira was still on the injury list.

Most of the pre-match talk revolved around how DPMM would cope without the import trio- who were dismissed after poor form and injury - and striker Shahrazen Said, who was out with a hamstring strain. 

But Brunei's only professional club proved their depth and character last night, and putting their bodies on the line,outran and outfought the visitors until the final whistle in a match that is set to go down as a season-changer for a side who finished 2nd last season but has failed to live up to expectations this term.

"I have always told my teammates that their level is very good, better than the Singaporeans,"said Santos, who now has three league goals this season.

"If we fight, are smart, play with the ball and attack...We can win.

"We shows today we can fight for 90 minutes.Home scored a late equaliser but we always believed.

"I remember telling the team the same thing when we played Home in last year's League Cup quarterfinal.

"We were down 1-0 and I told the team we cannot lose.I went up and scored after a cross from PAram(Azwan Salleh)and we went on to win the game on penalties," said Santos, who thanked his physiotherapist Saulo de Tarso for helping him recover from a knee operation before the start of the season.

"I am 100% recovered and I must thank my physiotherapist for that.He worked with me for only three months and now I am alright," he added.

Santos gave DPMM the lead after heading home a corner from captain Rosmin Khamis, after eight minutes, though Home replied straight from the lick-off when Masrezwan MAsturi beat goalkeeper Wardun Yussof at his near post, handing the Protectors a precious psychological boost.

DPMM would regian their cushion when the towering Santos headed a corner to adi, who scored unmarked on the far post in the 27th minute.

Thw confident Md Hendra was pulling all the strings in the DPMm midfield with some string running and accurate passing the whole game, but their best chance of the second half fell to the left winger Sairol Sahari- who connected well on a 76th minute cross from Ak Fakharazzi but saw Shahril up to the task.

Piling on the pressure, Home would hit the post twice in the last 10 minutes - with South Korean playmaker Lee Kwan-Woo also unlicky to see his 40-yard free-kick bounce off the bar early in the second half.

Wardun also had to save a free-kick from defender Sirina Camara and another from Lee and it was only due to some good tracking back and positional awareness  that DPMm were able to maintain the lead.

 The visitors persistence paid off when Wardun came out of his box and Webb stole in for the equaliser, but DPMM didn't let the goal affect them.

Trotting up from defence, Santos took a gamble taht would pay-off handsomely- though his coach's insistence that the win was down to a team effort entirely understandable.

"Tales was not player of the match,DPMm FC was. Many players were not 100 per cent but they gave their best, and they are all heroes," said Vjeran Simunic, whoe team now jumps two spots to fifth.

"For me, this is one of the most important games in my life because this was the start of a new era for DPMM," added last season's S-League Coach of the Year.

Even Home's assistant coach was impressed with DPMM's strong fighting spirit.

"Credit to them, they worked hard even though they had no foreign players and they took their chances," said Aidil Sahrin Sahak.

"We could see their commitment and determination, and they closed us down well." 

Not only with DPMM FC be missing three imports during tonight's league game against Home United, the hosts will be fielding an untested front-line now that Shahrazen Said has joined Portuguese Joao Moreira on the injury list.

DPMM FC released the imports trio of Dino Drpic, Ivan Bosnjak and Stephen Auvray on wednesday, the news coming as little surprise considering the battles with injury and form the three have had.

Their first match of the season ended in a 0-0 draw, with the match at the Bishan Stadium in Singapore marking the league opener for both teams.

Speaking with the Brunei Times after yesterday's training session, DPMm coach Vjeran Simunic insists he has moved on from the club's decision to terminate the players' contacts and has more pressing matters to worry about.

"I respect every decision the management makes and am already focussed on the next game with the rest of the team," he said.

"Shahrazen injured himself(lrft hamstring)during our last three minutes of our last game and he hasn't been practicing since then.

"Adi will lead the line with Param and Helmi in attack...Salleh will join Santos  and Shahrul in defence.

"We have been in this situation before and we have always survived...Santos is also not 100% after a knee operationin the off season, but he always gives 300%," added Simunic.

The team's leading scorer with 6 goals Moreira is expected to be out for weeks after pulling a muscle in his right leg during the team's 2-1 loss to Harimau Muda on May 1.

A large reason the 2012 runners-up have been unable to replicate their good showing has bee due to injuries and the inability of the new imports to gel with the team-Bosnjak,Auvray,Dino and Moreira were signed at the start of the season, though only the Portuguese has cemented his place in the starting line-up.

Home have had no such problems though, adn Simunic has already identified their South Korean playmaker, Lee Kwan-Woo woho was part of his country's side during the 2006 and 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign,as the Protector's main threat.

Strker Indra Shahdan, who has made more than 200 appearances in the league and 100 for Singapore, has also been identified as one of the key players by Simunic- as was Japanese striker Fukui Masato and French defender,Sirina Camara.

Home's coach, though, didn't want to pick any of his players or DPMM's for special attention when met yesterday.

"They have some good foreign players and so do we,so if we play together I'm sure there will be no problem," said South Korean Lee Lim Saeng who seemed not to know about the trio's dismissal.

"Except for the three or four players, the rest of our team is new.The first part of the season was used to get to know each other, and now we have a good understanding.

"We have been playing very confidently with good football and controlling possesion in most of our games, and we are well-balanced in defence and attack," noted the 2006 World Cupper who has helped Home to the second best goal differencein the league with 10.

DPMM FC slumped to their second defeat in as many games after two goals in five minutes gave a shock 2-0 win over DPMM last night.

Both strikers came in the second half, and both came after a pin-point passes were met by delicate finishes -with DPMM simply unable to break down a resilient Warriors defence which was led superbly by Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny.

The result against the record 8-time League Champions was also the second time DPMM have failed to find the net in as many games at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium with a 1-0 loss to Tanjong Pagar on april 7 still fresh in the memory of the sparse crowd.

"They're a very good team, atop-three contender.I can't say they don't deserve the result, but we deserved a draw," said the DPMM FC cosch.

DPMM FC Portuguese striker missed the game due to a fracture he picked up in the team's last match against  Harimau Muda, which ended in a 2-1 loss, and the hosts looked toothless in attack. 

Croatian centreback Dino Drpic set the tone for the first half by hitting the crossbar in the 7th minute and Shahrazen Said had an effort that was wide of the left post 4 minutes later.

The visitors soon got a foot in the game and Brazilian's defender Tales Ricarte was forced to clear a shot by midfileder Shimpei Sakurada off the line the 13th minute.

Shahrazen should make it 1-0 after stealing the ball off Croatian defender MArin Vidisevic but his shot was inches wide of the left post.

DPMM FCgoalkeeper Wardun Yusof did well to dive to block an attempt from the onrushing Karoglan 4 minutes later, and his counterpart Hassan pulled off the save of the game after instinctively falling to his right to deny a tap in from Md Hendra Azam in the 53rd minute.

Santos had a header flying inches wide off the right post in the 68th minute, hut the game's definign moment later when Shia Jiayi hit a crossfield pass that DPMM's backline and found Sakurada-who produced a cool finish past Wardun.

The home crowd grew even more silent when Shukor Zailan's through ball caught Santos out of position, with Karoglan easily prevailing in another one-on-one with Wardun.

"We deserbed to win.We could have been 2-0 up at the break and in the second half we took advantage of the high line they were playing," said Warriors coach V.Selvaraj.

"We have experienced players that can see the forwards movements and we have players that can make those runs,"he added.

The only run DPMM seem on to be is a goalless one at home, and their fans will be looking anxiously at Friday's game against  - ironically - Home United to see whether the third time will be the charm. 

A depleted DPMM FC consider themselves the underdogs in tonight's league clasg against SIngapore's most successful club, Warriors FC.

Last season's runners-up, DPMM FC have had a mived 2013 campaign so far and are coming off the back of a 2-1 loss to Harimau Muda on Wednesday.

DPMM FC have collected 15 out of possible 30 points and sit sixth in the table, and though record eight0time champions Warriors aren't exactly flying high at 10th, DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic insists the injuries to his squad will be a problem.

Midfielder Azwan Sallehremains a long term concern with a knee injury, leading scorer Joao Moreira was replaced in the first half against harimau Muda after pulling a muscle in the right leg, and 2 other imports - striker Ivan Bosnjak and defender Tales Ricarte have yet to regain full fitness after a skull fracture and a knee operation respectively.

As tring of poor performances forces Guadeloupean Stephen Auvray out of the starting-11, all of which is hardly giving Simunic any cause for optimism ahead of tonight's match.

"We have lost Joao but I trust my other players," Simunic said on Friday.

"Warriors are a team of 6 imports... They're a respectable team.We will need to fight and run 100% to get a result -we didn;t do that against Harimau Muda.

"Warriors have Shi Jiayi, who was Singapore's best player during their AFF Suzuki Cup campaign last year.

"Warriors also have three good Japanese players -forward Tatsuro inui and midfielders Shmpei Sakurada and Kazayuki toda- and Croatians Marin Vidosevic and striker Miroslav Karoglan, wjo scored 11 goals last season and 33 in 2011," reminded Simunic.

The visitors also hve capable men in between the sticks in Hassan Sunny and Hyrulnizam Jumat, both of whom are national team goalkeepers for Singapore.

Warriors can also cll on the experience of Singaporean internationals suxh as defender Daniel Nennett, midfielder Ruzaini Zainal and strikers Erwan Gunawan and Sufian Anuar, and man-for-man it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the Warriors have more quality.Though the Warriors are coming off a 5-0 loss to Hong Kong side Kitchee in their last AFC group stage on Wednesday, their coach insists the result won't have an effect on tonight's game.

In face, V Selvaraj thinks their early dismissal from the regional tournament- will be a blessing in disguise.

"The loss to Kitchee was sequenial because we had already been knocked out of the tournament," explained the coach.

Now we know where our priorities lie and we can focus fully on the league.Now that the AFC Cup is over, its a weight off our mind.

Morale is very high because of our good results in the over the last 4 games.2 wins, a draw and a loss to Harimau Muda ) 

"We have two crucial games coming up, and its our best opportunity to climb up the table- the first against DPMM and the second against Albirex Niigata so its important to get a result here," he added.

The coach went on to note that DPMM's biggest threat is their height on both ends of the pitch, picking out Bosnjak, Santos and croatain defender Dino Drpic, as examples of players who can cuae problems during set-pieces.

Inui will be out with a calf strainm but Selvaraj promised that " the rest will be raring to go".

DPMM FC  fell to their third defeat of the league season after losing 2-1 to Harimau Muda in Johor, Malaysia yesterday.

Striker Mohamad Faizal opened the scoring 2 minutes after the break at the Pasir Gudang Stadium, with Maxsilius Musa's 80th minute goal proving enough for the Malaysian Under-21 team to claim the three points and pushed them up to 4 places to sixth- and just one point adrift of fifth placed DPMM FC.

Yesterday's gam pitted the S-League's only two foreign sides, and with with the Malaysians in their debut season, the result comes as something of a surprise.

Defender Tlaes Ricarte dos Santos provided DPMM FC a lifeline after netting five minutes from time, but the Brazilian's first goal of the season would have been of little consolation during the bus ride across the Causeway back to Singapore.

Portuguese striker, Joao Moreira who has a team high six goals to his name was substituted for Adi Said in the 36th minute due to an injury.

Midfielder Ak Fakharazzi replaced Croatian striker Ivan Bosnjak in the 64th minute and DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic would make his last change after replacing Dino Drpic with Abd Aziz Tamit in the 83rd minute.

As expected, Simunic had to play without the services of midfielders Hj Md subhi Abdillah bakir and Azwan Ali rahman-all of whom were on the injured list. 

Vjeran Simunic is sweating on the fitness of three midfielders ahead of DPMM FC's league game against Harimau Muda today.

Hj Md Subhi abdilah Bakir[ who has been usd as a right-back this season-joins left winger Azwan Salleh and central midfielder Azwan Ali Rahman on the injured list, and though DPMM's caoch seemed confident at least one of the three will be fit enough to play some part in today's proceedings at the Jalan Pasir Gudang Stadium in Johor, Malaysia, Simunic already has a contingency plan in place.

"Jimbo(Hj Md Subhi)got a kick in the last game against Balestier, Param(Azwan Salleh) is still injured from the game against Geylang and Azwan Ali is recovering from a challenge from Fahrudin when we played Tampines," said Simunic on Monday.

"Param has a lingering knee injury that we are monitoring.

"If Param is playing, we will use a 3-5-2 formation , but now we will switch to a 3-4-3 , and play Hendra and Bobby in central midfield and Najib on the left and Helmi on the right," added the Croatian.

Shahrazen is expected to start in front with Croatian striker Ivan Bosnjak, with Portuguese striker Joao Moreira- who leads the team in scoring six goals-playing in the hole. 

DPMM enter the game knowing that a win will see them jump from fifth to fourth in the table displacing Home Utd in the process.

Last season's runners-up,DPMM FC- who led the league during certain periods of last year- are in unfamiliar territory this campaign.

They currently trail leaders and defending champions Tampines by 10 points, though both teams have a t least a game in hand over the rest of the field.

After picking up only a win in their first four games,DPMM's season has picked up a pace after clinching three of their next five matches, with the 1-1 draw against tampines- the only team any team have taken points from the Stags- serving as a boost for Simunic.

"Tampines deserces to be at the top," admitted Simunic.

"But that game ...It was our best performance against them ever.We didn't give them any space and they didn't have any chances,"said the Croatian, despite knowing what the result was the third time the Tampines have secured a 90th minute goal to deny DPMM a win.

Harimau Muda 's performance is a far cry from Tampines, which is expected to be expected from a young team making its debut in one of Asia's most competitive leagues.

They are coming into the game on the back of losses against Home 1-0 and Hougang 3-1, and with 10 goals from as many matches, it is evident that finding th back of the net hasn't been a strong point. 

Former English Premier League (EPL) player Luis Boa Morte is te latest name to be on trial with DPMM FC.

The Portuguese international is in the Sultanate and was on the field with the rest of the DPMM FC players during training yesterday at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

DPMM are looking to beef up the midfield department which is currently lacking in depth with Md Hendra Azam and Azwan Alirahman still relatively young and Azwan Salleh still recovering from injury.

Boa Morte scord a taotal of 61 goals in his EPL career where he plied his trade with Arsenal (1997-1999), Southampton(1999-2001),Fulham (2001-2007) and West Ham United(2007-2011)

The 35-year old was then released by the Hammers in 2011 and plied his trade for Greek side Larissa followed by South African side Orlando Pirates.

Boa Morte returned to england in October 2012 where he laced up for fourth-tiered Chesterfield and his contract finished in January.

He has 27 caps with the national side and has scored 1 goal in a 5-1 victory over Angola back in November.2001.

The midfielder was also part of Portugal's 2006 World Cup campaign in Germany, where the team reached the semifinals.

However, the Singapore League transfer window will only open in June in time for the second half of the season.

DPMM FC manager, Ali Momin told the Brunei Times that trials are being held just in case any of their players pick up any injuries.

"This is a back up plan for us just in case we have any players picking up injuries.We need to conduct the tests early so that we know who are the best for the team," said Ali.

"The transfer window will open for three weeks and normally it takes about two for us to run trials and tests.But hopefully there won't be any injuries to our players," he added.

DPMM FC's next game will be away against Harimau Muda at Pasir Gudang in Malaysia on May 1. 

DPMm FC are set to re-sign midfielder Rodrigo Tosi when the Singapore LEague transfer window opens in June.

The Brazilian-Italian midfielder is the second name linked with a move to the club after they announced a trial for former Juventus and Fenerbahce midfielder Stephen Appiah last week.

In an interview with the Brunei Times last night,DPMm striker Shahrazen Said said that he would welcome the midfielder with open arms.

It would be very nice to have him(Tosi)back in the team.He was a very good player for us."

"Tosi is a complete player.We used to playin the 2005 and 2006 Malaysian League together.Tosi is a very good provider of the ball...a very good passer.

"He was a playmaker for us, with his crosses and good individual skills.He also helped score goals for us, and moreover he was a DPMM fan favourite."

"He would be a very good signing for us.If the deal goes through,it will be very interesting,"added Shahrazen.

DPMM FC are reportedly looking to replace Guadeloupean import midfielder Stephen Auvray after he came under heavy criticisms from DPMm coach Vjeran Simunic- as well as fans following poor performances. 

Auvray has not seen in action for the team since their 4-2 win over Geylang on April 3 in which he was blamed for both goals in the game. 

Simunic has, instead, opted to use the young and inexperienced Md Hendra Azam to partner captain Rosmin Khamis in the middle of the park.

DPMM FC however need to consider that tosi has been struggling to make an impact for Iran Pro League side Esteghlal FC last season and first team football has been something of a rare commodity for the 30-year old midfielder.

He has featured in only nine of Esteghlal's 19 Iran Pro League fixtures and has only started four games, failing to notch a single goal in the league.

One wonders if DPMM would consider a risky move or opt for the pursuit of an alternative 'enforcer'signing, a position that DPMM certainly need to fill.

Also, because of consistent injury suffers by Ivan Bosnjak,  DPMM are also looking for a marquee player.Appiah is the player that DPMM is looking into.But the team will have a marquee arriving for tests this Monday,22nd April, the former Fulham player and former Portuguese international, Louis Boa Morte.

DPMM FC snatched all three points after holding on to defeat Balestier Khalsa 1-0 in their league match last night.

An own goal by Balestier Khalsa Tengku Mushadad in the 35th minute was the difference in the encounter at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

Balestier gaolkeeper Zaiful Nizam had failed to clear a corner kick which conveniently landed for Portuguese striker Joao Moreira to pounce.

The latter's effort was blocked by Syed Taha at the near post but the clearance ricocheted off Tengku to find its way back of the net.

DPMM FC's head coach,Vjeran Simunic was delighted to claim a total of 4 points in a span of four days.

"I'm very proud of my boys beacuase Balestier are a very good team.We respect each other and they are very disciplined team,"said Simunic.

"I think we deserved the win after fighting for the whole 90 minutes It was a tough game and whoever who scored first would have the advantage and momentum," he added.

"Every 1-0 is sweet and tough.At the same time I think luck abd fortune followed us," continued the Croatian.

Brunei's only professional club were the better side in the opening half but things turned around after the interval with the introduction of the duo of Zulkiffli Hassim and Patrick Paronjody into the Balestier line-up.

DPMM seemed tired and were put under pressure with Balestier pushing forward in seach for an equaliser.

Their first good chance came after a free-kick in the 57th minute put Zulkiffli through but DPMM goalie Wardun sttod his ground to deny him near the post.

DPMM responded three minutes later with Sairol Sahari delivering a cross from the left but Moreira was just inches away from connecting from connecting to double the visitors lead.

They had another chance in the 65th minute with captain Rosmin Khamis on target with a freekick at thr edge of the box.

Moreira didn't have enough power on his shot after going one-on-one wuth Zaiful 3 minutes later.

The ball was mostly in the DPMM half and Qiu Li finally found the back of the net for balestier in the 78th minute but was ruled offside.

Korean Bong Jung-Hee had a chance 2 minutes later but could only skyrocket his shot.

Moreira was a bit adventurous five minutes from time, firng one from midfield after catching Zaiful off his line.However his effort ended up in the stands.

DPMM leapfrogged their opponents and are now up to fourth in the 12-team table with 15 points. 

DPMM FC's striker Shahrazen Said urged his teammates to focus on tonight's league clash against Balestier Khalsa.

The striker sais with the Times yesterday taht the team must forget about Tuesday's dissapointing draw against leaders Tampines Rovers.

"We lost focus in the game but we need to move on. We need to focus on both scoring and defending.We need to defend whenever we are in the lead," said Shahrazen.

DPMM FC blew the chance to take all three points after conceding a 90th minute goal against the Tampines.

"We must win tomorrow as we need to keep pace with the league leaders Tampines .For me it is very important for all players to help in defence regardless of their positions," added Shahrazen.

"Coach Simunic always told us that all eleven players must help out in defence.So we try our best tomorrow."

The trip to Jalan Besar tonight will be followed by the visit to Pasir Gudang, in Malaysia on the 1st May when they take on Harimau Muda, but Shahrazen is keen for them not to lose focus by looking too far ahead in the campaign.

"We need to keep focus on each game.We need to take one game ata a time and this time will be on Balestier Khalsa and at the same time we need to be very cautious too," he said.

Balestier meanwhile had an impressive outing as they defeated Hougang Utd 3-1 to walk away with all three points in which all their goals came from set-pieces.They have been using their advantage in the height department to look for goals.

Park Kang Jin has been influentialfor the team.His ability to score and set up goals for his team mates will cause difficulty for Simunic's team.

Jung Hee Bong and Obadin Aikhena will also be a threat to DPMM given their height and ability to score headers.

"I heard theyhave signed new good players," continued Shahrazen.

"They are dangerous at set-pieces, but so are we.They will need to defend against our set-piece attacks too,"he added. 

DPMM FC were left kicking tehmselves once again after letting in a 90th minute goal to undefeated leaders Tampines Rovers in their Singapore League match which ended 1-1 last night.

Their previous two meetings saw the Stage escape with a 90th minute goal,and last night's encounter at the Clememti Stadium was no different- with DPMM yet to beat Tampines in three ties.

Portuguese striker Joao Moreira opened the scoring in the 35th minute after latching onto a rebound from a Shahrazen shot, but the Stags broke DPMM's hearts once again when Khairul Amri netted in the dying seconds after an attempt which found its way past a multitude of players in the box, according to DPMM coach VJeran Simunic.

The strike was Moreira's fifth goal in the league and he now leads the goal scoring charts at DPMM with Shahrazen on four goals this campaign so far.

The S-League runners-up can also take some consolation in the fact that the result was the first time any tam has taken points away from the defending champions, who have wn all 6 of their games leading up to last night's clash.

Though he was asked about the team's inability to get a win against Tampines, and the fact that the Stags always seem to be able to score a late goal, Simunic refused to drawa ny parallels with past results.

"Last night's game was different," insisted the coach in a telephone interview.

"Our players were fantastic and we had many chances to score a second goal.

"The refereeing was also bad and there were many mistakes which won't punished," added Simunic.

The Croatian said both Moreira and Adi Said suffered tackles which went unnoticed by the referee, going on to call the result " a big robbery".

"The way they tackled Adi...It was like rugby.And Joao is now injured after some bad tackles," he added.

Bad tackles or not, the team will have to pick themselves up from what would have been a much needed boost in time for their next match against Balestier Khalsa at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Friday.

DPMM FC captain Rosmin Khamis might sound upbeat about tonight's S-League match against defending champions Tampines Rovers even if his coach isn't.

DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic yesterday paid the S-League leaders the ultimate compliment, and though the Stags are the only unbeaten team in the league, his comparision to one of the most mesmerising sides in recent memory might be a ittel too respectful.

"They are like Barcelona," said Simunic yesterday ahead of tonight's tie at the Clementi Stadium in Singapore.

"They have a team of 14 international players.They are the best team in Singapore.What can we do?

"We will go there to give them a challenge and play a good game.I can't promise anything else," added last season's Coach of the Year.

His pessimism is perhaps understandable.

Last season's S-League runners-up look a shadow of the side they put out last season, one that brought the title fight with Tampines down the wire despite not playing a game of competitive football in 2 years.

Rosmin, though,  believes his team should step onto the Clementi Stadium expcting nothing less than a draw.

"Everyone has prepared well to try and get some points out of this match," he said.

"If we look back at our past games, we have had more chances.Its just that we need to take them if we want to win the game," he said.

DPMM FC's last 2 matches against the Stags have failed to produce a victory, though the same tie last season - when DPMM FClet in a 90th minute goal to lose 1-0 on June 15 - must still linger in the heads of the players.

The home fixture last season saw the Stags stage a late comeback to once again bag a 90th minute goal and force a 2-2 draw on Feb 12.

Shahrazen isn't thinking about any of that though.

"If we have full commitment and focus, maybe we'll break that record and I hope DPMM supporters pray for us.

"Every club in the league wants to break tampines' unbeaten record, but they have quality players so it will be really difficult.

"But we will try our best to do something good for the club," added DPMM FC's top-scorer with 13 goals last season.

Monsef Zerka showed why he is one of the most feared strikers in the league after the Moroccan striker handed Tanjong Pagar a 1-0 won over DPMM FC last night- the first time the Jaguars got one over Brunei's premier side after losing all three previous encounters.

The league's current top-scorer with 6 goals,Zerka - who has played in Ligue 1 with AS Nancy -turned Croatian defender Dino Drpic in the 19th minute before evading a poor sliding challenge from Subhi Abdillah to calmly slot home past goalkeeper Md Wardun Yussof to deal last season's runners-up their first home defeat of the campaign.

It was the visitors' only real chance of note on a a rainy night, and despite Tanjong Pagar ending the match with 10-men after midfielder Asraf rashid was shown his second yellow card after a a rash challenge on Portuguese striker, Joao Moreira, the hosts poor ball movement abd penetration prevented them from really testing French goalkeeper Aurelien Herrison.

The result means Tanjong Pagar cement their position at third, and though DPMM are still fourth, the Bruneians are ahead of fifth palced Woodlands by just one goal - with Home and Balestier chasing down their necks just a point behind.

"All the guys did their best, worked hard together, and the result was because of our string mentality...We work as a group," said a humble Zerka.

"We're not targeting a top three fin ish, whats important is that we enjoy playing together," said the 31-year old.

With Tanjong Pagar coming in the 12th last year, it come a little surprise that Zerka isn't carried away with the win.

Zerka was a constant threat in the first half, so much so that DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic hastily replaced left winger Najib Tarif who himself was playing in the place of injured Azwan Salleh, with Tales ricarte in the 27th minute.

The fact that the hosts were playing their third game in the space of a week after their 1-0 win over Woodlandslast Sunday and their 4-2 win against Geylang Internationalon Tuesday was also a factor in the loss- though Simunic felt the team should have walked away with a least a point.

"I think Tanjong Pagar are a good team but we didn't deserve to lose,"he said glumly.

"I had to take Najib out due tactical reasons.They had three very good strikers.Zerka, Frenchmen Ishmael Benahmed and Kamel ramdhani, and we needed Tales experience  so it wouldn't have been 2-0," said the Croatian, who personally congratulated Zerka for his performance after the game.

Though they did create the lion's share of chances,DPMM looked toothless in front of goal-opting to boot the ball upfield to the towering dos Santos in the latter stages of the match despite enjoying the numerical advantage.

Striker Shahrazen Said, who netted three times in the team's last three meetings with the Jaguars, cleared the ball off the line before dos Santos was introduced- and the Brazilian did well to rein in Zerka.

Drpic was having a horrid time in the first half but his carelessness was a thing in the past in the second half, with his passes finding their mark and his aerial ability shining through.

Just as impressive was central midfielder Md Hendra Azam who was showing why Simunic was playing him for the fourth straight match because of his astute ball distribution.

Md Hendra spurned a golden opportunity to level the scores just before the break when he skied the ball from Moreira on the left, but just seconds after the restart, provided a pass to deos Santos which opened space for the Brazilian to shoot- though he was unlucky to hit the left post.

Moreira had a shot which hit the side netting in the 53rd minute, and 4 minutes later Shahrazen had a header which looked to have crossed the line.

Though DPMM were finding space on the flanks, their crosses were gobbled up by Lounis, and anything that escaped  the tunisian-born defender reached the safe hands of Herisson.

Substitute Azwan ali rahman could have stole the draw at the death after dribbling inside the box but shooting wide of the left post, ana after captain Rosmin Khamis saw his free-kick saved seconds later,there was more drama to come when Sairol Sahri made a herois last-ditch tackle on midfielder Hafiz Nor who was running through to goal after a counter-attack. 

DPMM face Tanjong Pagar tonight in a fight for third in the Singapore League tonight.

Third-placed Tanjong Pagar lead last season's S-League runners up on goal difference, and a win will guarantee taht the hosts end the match at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium ahead of the Jaguars.

DPMM FC, who are playing their third game in a space of a weekadmit that their hectic schedule will play a part in tonight's proceedings.

Though DPMM have won all of their three past encounters against tanjong Pagar, the hosts know they can't rest on their laurels.

"We need to be clever because we knoits not easy to recover after playing three games in a week,"noted DPMM left back Sairol Sahari.

"We should just play our game and keep the momentum going," he added.

Striker Shahrazen Said, who has scored three times in the team's last three encounters with Tanjong Pagar, mirrored Sairol's comments.

"Like in the previous matches, we must keep our focus and concentrate our stamina and fitness because we will be playing three games in almost one week," said Shahrazen.

DPMM FC's top-scorer with 13 goals last season, Shahrazen netted a brace in their 3-2 home win in the league on April 13 and opened their scoring in their 3-0 victory at the Queenstown Stadium Sept 23.

Hj Subhi scored the only goal the two teams met in the group stage of last year's Singapore Cup, a competition DPMM would go on to win the second time.

Despite Shahrazen's consisitently strong showing over the years, it has been Joao Moreira stealing the limelight of late - the Portuguese striker finally coming good after a slow start to the season by scoring three goals in the last two matches, bringing his season tally to 4.

Moreira scored the winner against Woodlands and a brace against Geylang, but he is not the only foreign striker making an impact in the league this season.

Tanjong Pagar have ex-Morocco international Monsef Zerka, a veteran of the Ligue 1 with AS Nancy and FC Nantes, who currently shares the lead atop the S-League charts with Geylang's Jozef Kaplan -both who have 5.

Frenchmen Ishmael Benahmed and Kamel Ramdhani will add to the attacking threat, as will former Singapore international Ahmed Latiff Khamaruddin- aveteran forward the DPMM team know all too well about.

French defender Anthony Aynard is an injury concern heading into the match, and with captain Hafiz Osman out with a left tendon injury for the whole season, vice captain Walid Lounis will once again deputise his place- the Tunisian-born Singaporean sure to be a steadying presence in defence for the visitors.

Despit tonight's game being billed as a battle for third, Tanjong Pagar's coach insists he is not placing any additional importance on it.

"For me each game is a big game and I don't care about the league position," claimed Patrick Valle, who guided French side Etoille FC to the S-League title and League Cup in their debut in 2010.

"I know it will be a tough game because Brunei haven't lost at home this season so any point we get out of this will be good.

"They're a better team than us...They're fighting for the title, we aren't.We have to be humble.

"Its difficult to pick one player but they have two good strikers in Moreira and Shahrazen," he said whe he pressed on who his team would be watching out for.

"They' re a good team and we must watch out for all 11 players...Maybe 12 if you include their coach (Vjeran Simunic)...And 13 if you include the crowd," joked the Frenchmen. 

Geylang International coach Kanan Vedhamuthu admitted that his side were second best in their 4-2 loss to DPMM in the league on Wednesday.

"They were the better team and we were visiblt second best.The boys will just have to work hearder now," he said.

Portuguese striker Joao Moreira scored a brace for DPMM with Helmi and substitute Ak Kakharazzi scoring a goal each to help the club into fourth place with 11 points.

"They are a good team and moreover they are more experienced and we just couldn't match them," he told Brunei Times.

"The average age of their team is 32, whereas we are just 25.

"We defended better in the first half and managed to prevent some goals, but I think the first and second goals came so quickly and we loss our shape,"continued Kanan whose team remained ninth in the table following the defeat.

the 34-year old coach also admitted that his side had struggled to maintain possession of the game.

"We didn't have anyone to hold the ball abd olay...We definitely missed Stefan and Shah Hirul and will be waiting for these two to come back so we can have someone who will hold the ball," said the coach.

Their absence was definitely a factor in the game as Geylang were completely outplayed in the midfield area with DPMM's Md Hendra Azam and skipper Rosmin Khamis shutting down the Eagle'smovement in the middle of the park.

DPMM, meanwhile have already turned their attention to their next game against Tanjong Pagar who currenly sit third in the table.

"They (DPMM FC players) are really tired, but we have four days before our next game, and it should be enough for us to prepare for the game. I am sure for the Tanjong Pagar game we will have double the fans after tonight's result," said DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic. 

DPMM FC produced a superb second half to beat Geylang International 4-2 in their league match last nughtat the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Joao Vitor Moreira scored a brace for DPMM while Helmi and Ak Fakharazzi scoring a goal each to help propel Vjeran Simunic's squad into fourth place in the 12-team table with 11 points.

Md Hendra Azam who got the nod ahead of Guadeloupe national team captain Stephen Auvray forged a formidable partnership with skipper Rosmin Khamis in the middle of the park.

Striker Adi Said who started in place of injured Ivan Bosnjak also put on an impressive performance last night.

The game did not dissapoint with both sides committed to leave the match with maximum points.

DPMM came out firing on all cylinders, Azwan Salleh the first to threaten after his striker went straight in the arms of Geylang goalkeeper Joey Sim.

Adi ran away from his defenders on the ensuing two posessions but poor finishing let him down.

Helmi, who is enjoying a recent run of good games, also looked highly dangerous down DPMM FC's right.

Geylang meanwhile, were starved of possesion and failed to register a single shot on target in the opening period.

Their only real chance in the first half came in the 35th minute when defender Khairulhayat Jumat's header went wide following a corner from the right.

Moreira and Shahrazen imposed themselves as the men of danger for Geylang after the restart.

However it was Helmi who made the breakthrough in the 49th minute, the wingback making a brilliant run behind two Geylang defenders from the right before latching onto a Moreira pass to squeeze the ball at the near post.

DPMM took advantage of a shell shocked Geylang to extend their lead just two two minutes later, courtesy of a Moreira header off Hj Subhi's cross from the middle of the field.

Geylang continued to struggle as th second half wore on. 

Both Moreira and Shahrazen spurned opportunites to build DPMM's lead while the visitors' chances were kept to a minimum.

Substitute Ak Fakharazzi made it 3-0 in the 78th minute, curling the ball from the right side of the midfield, leaving Geylang's goalkeeper with no chance.

Moreira scored his brace two minutes later with a low shot from outside of the penalty box.

DPMM's hopes of keeping a clean sheet was however ruined following two quick poor decisions by Auvray.

Geylang's Md Yasir Hanap took advantage of the midfielder's sloppy back pass in the 87th minute to pull one goal back for the visitors.

The Guadeloupe national was also blamed for Geylang's second goal when he fouled Kawakami inside the penalty box in injury time.

Jozef Kaplan converted the penalty to make it 4-2.

The game also marked the debut of Azwan Ali Rahman, signed from Indera SC last month.

Even without injured striker Bosnjak, Simunic's team were simply too good for the visitors.

"At the start of the game, I was scared this would be a boring game because we just had a game on Sunday," said Simunic.

"Even great teams cannot play after three days.But as you can see tonight, our young locals were fantastic," he added.

"Paka was great(Ak Fakharazzi), I am vry happy that a lot of locals played tonight.It is good for bruneian football," he said. 

Vjeran Simunic insists DPMM FC will not taking Geylang International lightly despite tonight's league opponents languishing in ninth place.

Last season's S-League runners-up,DPMM FC host geylang in their second game in four days following their 1-0 win over Woodlands Wellington - and DPMM FC's cosch believes the Eagles can cause his side problems when both theam clash at the Hassanl Bolkiah National Stadium tonight.

DPMM defeated Geylang 2-0 in the S-League Cup final last year, the victory marking them out as the first club to win the tournament twice after claiming the first in a penalty shoot-out victory over the Warriors in 2009.

DPMM also beat Geylang 4-1 in last season's home encounter on March 16 and 3-1 in the away fixture on July,21 but Simunic isn't taking anything for granted.

"Geylang are a very good teama nd we respect them," the coach told the Brunei Times yesterday.

"We played them in the final of the Singapore Cup last year and they have always been a tough oponent for us.

"They have added defender Norihiro Kawakami and goalkeeper Takuma Ito and Shotaro Ihata from Albirex.And there is Kaplan too, so it won't be easy.

"We will try to repeat our performance during the game against Woodlands where we had many chances..And this time we will try to take them all," added the Croatian.

"It is always difficult to play in Brunei so I think a draw will be good enough for us," said Kanakarajan Vedhamuthu yesterday.

"DPMM are a very good team and it will be a tough game.

"They've got very good import players and the locals have been there for a long time.

"We all know that it is not going to be an easy game, but my players will not give in easily.

"We have a very young squad,the players are hungry and at the same time they also know about the strength of DPMM FC,"he said, adding the defender Stefan Milosevic will sit the game out with an ankle injury.

The 34-year old coach also played down claims that DPMM's busy run of fixtures will help his side in getting a win tonight.

"They have been in this position before and they have the experience to deal with it," said Vedhamuthu. "We might have a slight advantage but I am very sure they will go all ou to win the game," added the coach.

DPMM FC midfielder Mohd Hendra Azam Md Idris is aiming to stake his claim in the starting-11 after an encouraging performance in hsi side's 1-0 win over Woodlands Wellington in the league on Sunday.

The 25-year old provided the assist for Portuguese striker Joao Moreira and later was named the man of the match by coach Vjeran Simunic.

Hendra featured twice for the club for the last season but has managed two appearances this time around, the first time coming during their away encounter against Albirex.

He has slowly gaining Simunic's trust after being an unused substitute in their first two games against Home Utd and Hougang Utd but coming off the bench to replace Guadeloupean Stephen Auvray during their match against Young Lions which saw the team won their first match of the season.

Though he started the game against Albirex, he would be replaced by Adi Said in the second half.

"I just want to do well for the club, work hard and keep improving,"said Hendra in an interview with the Brunei Times yesterday.

"I hope that I will be able to play more games this season no one likes to be on the bench.I enjoyed being in the first-11 and it is my target for this year.

"I only played twice last season.I was in the starting line-up against Gombak and came on as a sub during our match against Geylang,"he added. DPMM will face Geylang International at home tomorrow and Tanjong Pagar away on Sunday. A former QAF FC player, Hendra Azam believes he has grown a lot during his time at DPMM.

Asked about his performanceduring Sunday's game,Hendra replied: " I was surprised that the coach picked me as the man of the match because the others played very well too."

But you know it feels great to get the win,especially you know you have contributed something," added Hendra, who laced up for the country at the 2012 ASEAN Football Federation Suzuki Cup qualifiers in Myanmar last October.

"He did very well in the recent games and he deserves his position," said Simunic when met after the team's training session at Mini Stadium yesterday. "He is a great player but he didn't play a lot last year because of fitness problems,"said the coach.

"This year,though, I think he is ready." 

Joao Vitor Moreira delivered a perfest Easter gift for Vjeran Simunic after he scored DPMM's win over Woodlands Wellington in the league at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas last night.

"It is a good Easter for me," said DPMM FC's head coach in an interview with the Brunei Times after the match.

The Portuguese striker made a beautiful run behind the Woodlands defenders to latch onto Md Hendra Azam's cros  before slamming the ball past goalkeeper Ahmadulhaq Che Omar with his left foot in the 30th minute.

DPMM had the lion's share of chances, but they failed to capitalise with Adi Said missing a free header early in the second half followed by Helmi Zambin's effort from the right which was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Ahmadulhaq.

The victory last night is very difficult but sweet," added Simunic.

"As I said earlier, Woodlands are not an easy team to beat, they are a good team.But again if we counted the chances that we had in the game we could have scored more.

"We lost Ivan Bosnjak early in the second half beacuase he could not continue.But Hendra was the man of the match tonight.He did a good job on Hamdaoui and it was a very good assist with the cross too," said Simunic.

"I don't know what happened to Woodlands.I thought they are going out and attack.Maybe they respected us too much or maybe we are that good and we pushed them into their own half," continued the veterean coach.

Meanwhile Woodlands coach Salim Moin, who was sent to the stands after arguing with the fourth official, did not agree with Simunic.

"I am very attacking oriented.That is why we are playing with three strikers tonight," said the woodlands coach.

"We came here not to give away points.I am very confident of my team.

"Basically we were the better team.In the second half we were better.Some of the decisions made by the referee were very poor, very silly uncharacteristically decision that was much uncalled for," Salim explained.

"What I am saying is the referee had DPMM to win the game tonight," he added.

"Certain departments were not working very well, so we made several changes in the half by bringing in Moon.

"With Moon around, it was a different game.But I cannot play him in the first half because he got fever,"he continued.

With the victory, DPMM replaced Woodlands in the fifth spot despite both teams having eight points because of a game in hand.

Meanwhile, DPMM will face  Geylang International at home on Wednesday and Tanjong Pagar away on Sunday.

Vjeran Simunic is wary of the threat that Woodlands Wellington FC's new attacking midfielder Khalid Hamdaoui will pose tonight.

DPMM FC will face in-form Woodlands in their first Singapore League match in three weeks, and their coach knows that the Dutchman is the club's main weapon this season, especially since Hamdaoui is leading the league goal chart with four other players after scoring four times in five games.

The 31-year old former Ajax Amsterdam youth academy produst has played at Dutch Eredivisie clubs AZ Alkmaar and NAC Breda,according to Woodlands' website.

Hamdaoui was called up to represent the Dutch Under-21 national team, where he appeared 18 times between 1996 to 2001, scoring 5 goals in the process.

He also played for Japanese second division side Tokyo Verdy,Scottish Premier League Dundee Utd and Moroccan giants raja Casablanca.

"Hamdaoui is number one now in the league and our players are looking forward to play against him ," said Simunic, whose team lies 9th in the 12-team table with 5 points from 4 games.Their new signing Cho Sung hwan is also very good, and he is a key for them.

"Woodlands are very different team now and about 95% are new. With their recent form, they are now targeting a top-three finish.They are a lot stronger this year and our players are aware of that and it keeps them motivated," added the Croatian.

Woodlands coach agreed that their new line-up and has been reason for their fine form.

"New players, new philisophy, with a little bit of change in tactics and the team is progressing very well," said Woodlands coach Salim Moin yesterday.

"We have signed a number of good seasoned players abd they have blended with the locals,and it is very encouraging to see.We are looking ahead of this game and hope the players can get a good result," said the 51-year old, who added the Japanese Atsushi Shimono will sit the game due to calf injury.

Simunic will also sit a player out tonight -Guadeloupe national team captain Stephen Auvray.

Auvray will be replaced by in-form Md Hendra Azam who will be making his second start of the season after playing in their 2-1 loss to Albirex on March 11.

Striker Ivan Bosnjak,who suffered a skull fracture during DPMM's 3-3 draw against Hougang, will also lace-up tonight.

"Bosnjak can play with the mask," confirmed Simunic of the 2006 World Cup player.He will play alongside Joao Moreira and Shahrazen.

"Hendra, Bobby(Rosmin) and Helmi and Param(Azwan)will start in midfield and Sairol,Jimbo(Subhi) and Dino will play at the back.As you can see, it is a very attacking formation and Dino is the only real defender there." 

Singapore League leaders Albirex Niigata handed DPMM FC their first loss of the season after beating them 2-1 last night.

The Japanese outfit's fourth win in as many games marks them as the side in the league to have picked maximum points, with the results against last season's runners-up who are currently fourth- sending out a strong signal to the rest of the chasing pack.

Despite Shahrazen scoring his fourth goal in four games after connecting on an Azwan Salleh corner in the 29th minute, Albirex would head into the break level terms after Kento Nagasaki scored from a 45th minute corner as well.

Kazuki Sakamoto would give Albirex the lead after another corner in the 59th minute and though DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic said his men pushed hard for an equaliser, the hosts would hang on for the win at the Jurong East Stadium.

"It was a good performance but I'm upset with the result," said Simunic in a telephone interview with the Brunei Times.

"Albirex didn't have any chances," explained the coach."We were the better team throughout the game but they have the three points- and deserve to be champs.

"You must see the replays,we played excellent in the half and pressed well.

"And in the last half an hour, we were just at Albirex's box and close to a draw.

"Azwan had an excellent chance to make it 2-2 but the goalkeeper produced a fantastic reaction...Saved it like the best goalkeeper in the world!

Our locals played very well.Hendra was very good, but he lacks match-fitness," added the Croatian.

Simunic handed midfielder Md Hendra his first start of the season last night after Hj Subhi Abdilah's hamstring strain against Young Lions ruled him out of the match.

Md Hendra, a former Under-21 national team player, was replaced by Shahrazen's brother Adi said in the 62nd minute, with the ineffective Portuguese striker Joao Moreira also taken out for Ak Md Kakharazzi six minutes later.

Defender Shahrulrizal's first league game of the season ended on a sour note when he was forced out due to a "brutal challenge" by an Albirex Player in the 75th minute, with Abd Aziz Tamit coming on in his place.

"It was a knee injury and I think he'll be out for 6 weeks now," said Simunic of Shahrul's injury.

DPMM will play athree-game home series in the space of a week, starting with Woodlands Wellington on March 31, geylang International on April3  and Tanjong Pagar on April 7.

Most of the players will be donning the national colours during the 20-day break, during which brunei are set to compete at the March 22-26 Asian confederation Asian Confederation Challenge Cup Group E qualifiers at Manila.

Midfielder Hj Mohd Subhi Abdilah Bakir will miss DPMM FC's match against S-League leaders Albirex Niigata tonight due to a hamstring strain.

DPMM FC, who finished runners-up last season, face arguably their toughest test all year in Albirex, who cam in third last campaign.

Hj Md Subhi, who picked up the injury during last Thursday's 2-1 win against Young Lions will sit out tonight's game with evergreen defender Pg Sallehuddin damit- who was shown his second yellow card in the last game.

Defender Abdul Aziz Tamit replaced Hj Subhi in the 77th minute of the game, but DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic is looking at a more attack-minded option against their Japanese opponents.

SImunic will give midfielder Md Hendra Azam Idris, a key component in the national Under-21 team's victorious run at last year's Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy, his first start of the season - with defender Shahrulrizal Abd Rahman poised for his season debut.

Striker Adi Said, who has played in all three of DPMm FC's games this season - two from the bench- is also likely to play some part for tonight's proceedings at the Jurong East Stadium.

Though the loss of Hj Subhi and Pg Sallehuddin might seem like a blow to DPMM FC,Simunic believes his strong stable of local talent allows DPMM FC's fringe players to pick up the slack.

"Salleh is suspended and Subhi injured, so I will give Shahrul a chance to play.Hendra will play in Subhi's place,"Simunic told the Brunei Times yesterday.

"We have many good players on the bench and every game now, we're 80 percent local players on the pitch...And that's something I'm very proud off.

"Just look at our win against the Young Lions...Singapore have the best national team in the region at the moment-they won the Suzuki Cup - and we beat the Young Lions.

"Brunei have very, very good footballers," he insisted.

Japanses footballers, though, probably a fer levels better than very, very good."

Albirex who are only team to have picked up maximum points from the season's three games,were one of the favourites for last year's title- and Singaporean media have already given them the same tag this year.

The Japanese have proven to be a tough nut to crack,letting in only one goalin their three matches-only defending champions Tampines Rovershave abetter record, having yet to pick a ball out of their net all season.

But Simunic as usual intends to crash the party.

"Albirex would like to be champions...But we want to spoil their plans," cautioned the confident Croatian.

Results have been split the last two times the tteams met though - DPMM beat albirex 2-1 last March but the Japanese beat them 2-0 in July - so tonight's game will be tough to call. 

The bruneian side were forced to dig deep to hold off the battling home team and secure victory after centreback Pg Sallehuddin saw red in the first half.

Both sides entered the game looking for their first win of the season, and in the end it was Brunei DPMM who prevailed over the Court Young Lions as two first half goals proved enough to seal victory on Thursday at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

It was the visitors who started the game on the front foot as they tested the Young Lions goalkeeper Rudy Khairullah twice within the first 7 minutes.

The 19-year old spilled a free-kick in the 2nd minute and had to thank an alert Sheikh Abd Hadi for bailing him out, before he redeemed himself with a smart save off Joao Moeira's towering header.

The Portuguese striker was causing all sort of problems for the home side as he next forced Rudy into a sprawling side with a long-range effort, before his header was cleared the line after Rudy had flapped at a cross.

The DPMM pressure finally paid off in the 20th minute as skipper Romsin Khamis pounceda half cleared free-kick at the edge of the area and turned to fire low into the bottom corner.

The doubled their lead just five minutes later, as forward Shahrazen Said sneaked in attack near post to glance a corner from Sairol Sahari beyond the hapless Rudy.

Things then started to heat up as players from both sides put in hefty challenges that stoked tensions, with DPMM centreback Pg Sallehuddin the first to crack.

DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic brought on midfielder Azwan Salleh for striker Adi Said at halftime to tighten things up, but the Young Lons managed to pull a goal back nine minutes after the restart.

Taking down a pass just outside the area, Sherif El-Masri neatly sidestepped two players before bending a sweet right-footed shot beyond Wardun's reach to put his sise firmly back into the game

The home side was doing a lot of pressing by now and Wardun denied them an equalizer in the 64th minute when he recovered well to block from shamil Sharif after spilling Nur Na'iim Ishak's hard drive into the midfielder's path.

Despite conceding, DPMM were happy to sit back with 5 players in defence as they tried to shut up shop, and they aided by the Young Lions inability to find a telling final pass in the ttacking third.

The Young Lions supporters, vocal throughout the match, continued to sing their hearts out as they tried to inspire their team, but the DPMM rearguard held firm to bring three points back home to Brunei. 

DPMM FC are looking to get into the win column of the Singapore LEague today.

Brunei's only professional team are set to face off against the Young Lions at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

DPMM FC were close to a win last Friday but let a two-goal cushion slip aand missed two penalties for a 3-3 draw against Hougang at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Striker Shahrazen Said netted twice in the first home game of the season and believes that the team will bounce back even stronger.

"We will just focus on the match.Our last game was a lesson for us.We will have to work hard to take three points,"said Shahrazen in an interview with the Brunei Times yesterday.

"We Will take it a game at a time.After this we will have to take ALbirex Niigata.Our fitness is very important,"he added.

DPMM FC will be missing the services of Ivan bosnjakafter the 2006 World Cup-playing Croatian striker fractured his bones around his ear and eye in the last match.

The 34-year old forward was instrumental in DPMM FC's attack and Shahrazen feels that the rest will have to step up without the former.

"I think I'll have to work hard and I hope that Moreira will do the same too as we play upfront with my brother(Adi Said)," said Shahrazen.

"Everyone is ready to bounce back.The morale of the team remains good.We will need good teamwork and fighting spirit to get the first win their first win of the season,"he added.

Captain Rosmin Khamis feels that the spirit in training camp is a t a high and he believes that they have got what it takes to.

"All the players were in shock after the result after the game against Hougang but that is football.Sometimes results just don't go our away but now everything is back to normal and we are looking forward to tomorrow's(Thursday's) match,"said Rosmin.

DPMM FC are only able to field three imports -Guadeloupean midfielder Stephen Auvray.Croatian defender Dino Drpic and Moreira as Brazilian Tales ricarte dos Santos are still out.

Asked if the Bruneian team are at a disadvantage,Rosmin replied: "I don't think that we are a t a disadvantage.We will not have our most experienced player on the field but I believe we will have excellent replacement.

"I pray that we can get our first win of the season but we know it will be a tough match against the Young Lions.It is never easy against them and I hope everyone will be at their best form to get that win," the midfielder concluded. 

Kick-off is at 7.30pm. 

DPMM FC'd Ivan Bosnjak will have to undergo surgery after fracturing the bone s around his eye during Friday night's 3-3 draw against Hougang.

Though the 2006 World Cup-playing striker recovered more than his fair share of abuse from Hougang's backline, he played on through the pain and emerged with a bandaged head in the second half of the match - with coach Vjeran Simunic correctly predicting that his compatriot would have to go for an operation after the match.

Bosnjak was instrumental in DPMM FC's attack and really came into his own in the second half, and though the team would squander a two goal lead and miss two penalties - one of which he won - the 34-year old insists he has no memory of their home season opener.

"I still don't remember even one minute of the game,"he said yesterdau during a telephone interview from the RIPAS Hospital.

"I ws told that we missed two penalties and I missed one, but I don't remember anything.

"We're still not sure where we should I go for surgery. I think Singapore but we'll decide in the next few days," added Bosnjak, who has 14 caps and one international goal to his name.

Bosnjak was rushed to RIPAS after the game and said he might be released today.

Despite being ruled out for the action for what looks to be the best part of a month,Bosnjak is already raring to get back in action.

Simunic said Bosnjak - one of the club's four new imports this season-is sure to miss at least a month of football.

Two months would be more reasonable but Bosnjak wants to get back to get back to the pitch to make amends for the penalty miss as soon as possible.

"I will clear all that up in the next game," he promised.

"I won't play in the next two games and I hope on March 31 I will be ready to play in front of the public.

"I will have to wear a mask,but I want to play,"Bosnjak vowed.

Probably no one is worried about Bosnjak's injury than Simunic, who balmes himself for allowing him to play despite knowing that he had a fracture.

The two have a long history together, with Bosnjak starting his career in 1997 at croatian side Chibilia inder Simunic's guidance.

"I feel horrible, I haven't slept all night," said Simunic yesterday.

"I should have ignored Ivan's big desire to continue the game in the second half.It wasa horrible kick and we saw a fracture on his face,but he begged me to play.

"It was difficult to say no...Iremember during my playing days as a goalkeeper,I risked my life to play, took injections to play...Bosnjak is the same.

"He is crazy brave.This was his first home game for DPMM FC and he risked his life.

"Now his face is not the same...I'm not sure who did itbut it was one of Hougang's three last men...I will have to watch the replays.

"Salleh also got many knocks but this is football-I'm not complaining. 

"Football nowadays is like war, not about technique.Hougang are not the same team as they were under Bacina.

"They play aggressive football and are a better team thanlast year, but I expected a game like this and I respected Hougang," added Simunic.

DPMM FC face Courts Young Lions on Thursday and Japanese team Albirex Niigata on March 11, the games set to be played at Singapore's Jalan Besar and Jurong East Stadium respectively. 

They return to the Hassanal Bolkaih National Stadium in Berakas for their fifth game of the season against Woodlands, and its safe to say Bosnjak won't be satisfied unless his name on the team-list. 

DPMM FC blew a two-goal lead nd missed two penalties in their Singapore League home opener against Hougang United last night, the 3-3 draw ranking as one of the most dramatic games in their three year S-League history.

It wasn't a problem for Hougang goalkeeper Fadhil Salim though, who dove to his right twice to deny penalties from Shaharazen Said - who was gunning for his hattrick - and Croatain Ivan Bosnjak,who was looking to score his first goal for his new club.

"Penalties are a gamble...A game of psychology too,"noted Fadhil.

"I took a chance with saves so so it was pure luck that I guessed which side.

"Actually I got a few tips from my goalkeeper coach Rezal Hassan on which side to jump.

"I can't tell you more than that or the other clubs will know what we are up tp," he said teasingly.

DPMM FC's coach Vjeran Simunic who was hardly in a mood for teasing after the game, might have been forgiven for thinking that Shahrazen's 61st minute brace would have sealed all the penalties after going 3-1 up.

But despite the hosts enjoying two penalties, the second sending Hougang captain Lau Meng Meng to an 80th minute shower for what looked like an elbow to DPMM FC's Joao Moreira, Simunic still felt his team was robbed.

"We needed three penalties morel,"he fumed, telling the press to write about the game after watching replays of the match."If you want to handball, no problem,he said, referring to a goal-line clearance from Syaqir Sulaiman, who looked to have handled the ball when saying a 70th minute shot from Bosnjak.

"We missed two penalties but thats football.Shahrazen was under pressure to score a hattrick, and Ivan made a mistake too, but thats football.

"Hougang have changed a lot of players this season,and are much better than last year,but they play very brutal.

"I think Ivan has to go for an operation tomorrow,he had many elbows thrown at him," said Simunic.

Bosnjak did enter the second half with his head nandaged but that was no excuse for the team's inability to sustain pressure and hold the ball when it mattered the most.

Their spurned chances in front of goal-Moreira shot straight to Fadhil after Shahrazen put him through on goal in the third minute- was also another problem Simunic would want to rectify during training.

It was only fitting that Shahrazen, DPMM FC's top-scorer with 14 goals last ca,paign, would score their first goal of the season after DPMM"s opener against Home Utd ended 0-0 last thirsday.

Captain Rosmin Khamis 27th minute freekick from the left was met with a header at the far post from Croatian defender Dino Drpic, who sent the ball back across the goal to Shahrazen- who rose the highest in a  packed Hougang box.

Shahrazen was just as effective at the other end of the pitch,clearing a 35th minute free-kick from Syaqir to safety.

Mamadou Diallo, who was aburst of fresh air for Hougang down the middle, shrugged off midfielder Stephen Auvray in the 42nd minute after another surging run and laid the ball off to Liam Shotton on the left-who cut past Pg Sallehuddin and curled the ball beyond Wardun Yussof.

Simunic's half time team talk seemed to have worked because DPMM came out a different animal in the second half, pressing in numbers and looking hungry for the ball.

However it was some direct, no-nonsense football that led the eam getting in front 10 minutes from the restart.

Drpic launched a goal-kick well into the Hougng half in the 55th minute,Shahrazen held the ball up outside the box and laid it off to Moreira who looked have skewed his chance after a heavy touch led him away from goal- though he quickly composed himself and chipped over Fadhil.

Rosmin's corner just past the hour-mark was met by a well-timed glancing header from Shahrazen, but the two-gaol cushion was shortlived.

Diallo unleashed an unstoppable free-kick in the 64th minute after being fouled by Auvray, the cannonball to the top-left corner setting up a nervy end to the game.

Auvray redeemed himself by unselfishly squaring the ball for Bosnjak in the 70th minute after some good build-upplay from Moreira,but Bosnjak's *** heroically cleared off the line by Syaqir- who collided with the post in the process.

Thomas beattie bundled Bosnjak's attempt in the box in the 75th minute but Fadhil's save denied Shahrazen a third goal.

Poor marking after an Azhar Sarudin free-kick saw Syaqir head home an equalise two minutes later, and though the home fans thought Bosnjak- who played for his country at the 2006 World Cup  -would not miss his 80th minute penalty,Fadhil was up to the task once again.

Ravisanthiran should have given the hosts another chance at the line after Moreira was brought down in the 86th minute, but as Simunic said, "That's football." 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic believes that tonight's Singapore League match against Hougang will be a test of his latest signings' compability with the local players.

Playing one week after their 0-0 opener against Home Utd, the Croatian yesterday said that awin at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium would be important ti prove that the new signings are gelling well together with the squad.

"Looking from the game against Home last week, the four new imports still need to coordinate.I know that it is not going to be easy.We need time for them to gel together with the team.We will see how they do tomorrow."

Lst season's runner-up DPMM FC failed to find the back of the net against Home United at the Bishan Stadium on Thursday.

"Hougand made a big surprise by defeating big teams last season except DPMM.Hougang did not lose both of their games against tampines last season.But we beat them twice last season."

"They sign a good number of players this year, four to six players, including their new tall striker Liam Shotton.Dino will take care of him tomorrow.

"Dino was injured after the game against Home .He didn't train much last week.But he will start the game tomorrow."added Simunic.

Good with the ball in the air, the towering Croatian defender Drpic brought a new dimension to DPMM's game.

The 31-year old donned the colours of Dinamo Zagreb 201 times during his nine year spell with the clubwhich has produced players such as Luka Modric,Niko Kranjcar and rising sensation Alen Halilovic.

"It is very important to not making a mistake tomorrow," continued Simunic.

"Look at SAF...It was a shock.They lost 6-1 to Tanjong Pagar.We cannot make the same mistakes. "

"Sairol will start tomorrow and Helmi will be on the bench.Joao and Shahrazen will be upfront.

Stephen,Subhi,Rosmin and Param in the middle.

It will be a big game tomorrow.Hougang is a different team now.But I am optimistic.I always believe in my players."added the coach.

Hougang are enjoying a great start of the season after defeating Young Lions 1-0 at the Jalan Besar on Wednesday.

"1-0 win against Young Lions.We didn't play to our potential.Young Lions defended very well but I am pleased that we score from acorner because it is what we have working on," said Hougang's coach Weaver in an interview yesterday.

"I saw DPMM play a few times last season.They are probably the favourite to win the league this year.They got quality players this season and they have a very determined coach.It will be tough."We are aware of their attacking threat,especially with Said and Joao Moreira.We got to be very cautious as we approach the game,"added the 36-year old. 

Vjeran Simunic looked less than impressed during his post-match interview after DPMM FC's Singapore League opener opener against Home United ended 0-0 last night.

Last season's runner-up took to the Bishan Stadium for theirlong-awaited S-League starter, but despite failing to find the net, DPMM FC's coach Vjeran Simunis seemed satisfied with the stalemate at the Bishan Stadium.

"Absolutely", said Simunic when asked whether he was happy with the result.

"Everybody knows its very difficult to take points away from Bishan.

"Of course Home have changed a lot of their players and they are now maybe of the best contenders to win the title this year, so at the moment I think playing 0-0 against them is a good result.

 "DPMM did not play defensively...We had two or three excellent chances to score," added the Croatian in a video sent by goalie coach Zainul Ariffin.

Home won two of the last four past encounters with DPMM FC, so last night's draw should be seen as a fair result.The game was delayed due to a lightning alert- the second match in a row after Wednesday's night's game between Young Lions and Hougang suffered the same fate - and the hold up was met with much criticism on social media.

The deadlock was enough for DPMM FC  to finish the night 6th in the 12-team table,equal on points with Home, Woodlands and Warriors.

Like many of the other opponents,DPMM, who won the Singapore League Cup for the second time last season,have made wholesale changes in their starting line-up.

The team lined-up in their normal 3-5-2 formation last night- with Croatian defender Dino Drpic marshalling the back-line flanked by veteran Pg Sallehuddin on the left and Hj Subhi Abdillah Bakir on the right.

As expected, Rosmin Khamis and Guadeloupean midfielder Stephen Auvray held court in the centre of the park.

Azwan Salleh started on the left,Md Helmi Zambin was handed a rare start on the right and Croatian striker Ivan Bosnjak was used as an attacking midfielder ahead of Rosmin and Auvray.

Simunic made a first change in the 77th minute by replacing Moreira, who was actually still not recover from back pain early in the week during training, with Shahrazen's brother Adi, going on to substitute Drpic for Abd Aziz Tamit three minutes later and sending midfielder Ak Mohd Fakharazzi on for Shaharazen in the 88th minute.

DPMM's next game is against Hougang on March 1 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Despite not having played a single Singapore League this year, DPMM FC are already under pressure because of their strong showing last season.

The won the Singapore League Cup for a second time and finished runners-up in th league, an outstanding achievement since they had not played competitive football for 2 years.

DPMM start their season tonight when they face Home Utd at the Bishan Stadium and though Home finished fifth last season, they seem to be the favourites for tonight's match because they won two of the four meetings with DPMM.

"I saw on Singapore television that they are aiming for two titles.Even other media said Home are number one, Tampines second and Warriors in third," said DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic.

"Nobody talks about DPMM like we are a threat si we are always here to spoil plans of big teams from Singapore.

"I know Home are very hungry to win the leaague and have spent a lot of money," added Simunic, who should know that Home have only retained 5 players from last year's squad.

Like DPMM FC's former Croatian international Ivan Bosnjak-who played in the 2006 World Cup -Home also have made a star signing for this seasonpicking up ex South Korean international Lee Kwan Woo during the close season.

DPMM FC have 4 new imports this season, and though the team played nine pre-season friendlies, tonight's match wil be the first time they'll be lacing up with Bosnjak.

Bosnjak suffered an early injury during the first of DPMM's friendlies in Vietnam earlier this month, which made him miss out on important time to get the feel of his new teammates.

He is DPMM's biggest signing to date so there is a lot of pressure on the croatian's shoulders to pile through every upcoming match with ease.

"I hope he's an experienced player so he can coordinate with the teamand he incorporate and coordinate them with the locals,"he added.

"Like everu coach in the world, its hard when you change your team. It's a big task as well as a big job," noted Simunic.

"We also have a horrible schedule at the moment as we will be playing away three times in our first four fixtures, and all three are very difficult for us.

"But we had a very hard schedule last year and we did a very good job,"reminded Simunic.

Home's coach Lee Lim Saeng has had a lot of time to judge his team after preparing for this season with a trip to South Korea for friendlies with topK-League teams, and Lee felt the exposure his players got there helped them improve because they got the chance to play at a higher level.

In fact, Lee's is so optimistic that he has already stated his goal is to battle for the S-League title and the Singapore Cup.

"We have a relatively a new team but with strong capabilities and important responsibilities," said Lee in a press release issued yesterday.

"The current players are identified and signed by Home for their commitment to our football philisophy which is based on fitness,discipline and commitment.

"Everyone is important to the success of this club and higher fitness and discipline, the 2013 team is ready to play attractive and quality football," Lee promised.

DPMM FC are eager to get their Singapore League campaign off the ground

Last season's runners-up face Home United at the Bishan Stadium in Singapore tomorrow, and teh team confirmed all their players during the signing ceremony for their 19 local players at the Riverview Hotel yesterday.

More importantly, though, the chemistry between the local players and the new imports will be crucial to determine how successful they will be this season.

Captain Romsin Khamis feels that training has been going well but believes more time is needed for the team to play to its full potential.

Rosmin also felt that there may be more pressure on the team to perform this season, especially after finishing as runners-up last season.

"Everything is smooth in training, but of course things will be differebt once we get on the pitch for competitive games," said the midfielder in an interview with the Time yesterday.

"I think we have imprived from the past season and but we see how things go in our first game.

"So far there is good flow in our game together with the imports, but there is still plenty of work to be done.

"I think there is a bit more pressure on us because we finished second last season, but what is important is that we take it one game at a time," added the captain.

"I think we are at 90 percent but everything can only be seen once we get on the field for the first game," said Shahrazen.

"We are learning to adept quickly playing together with the imports.We are ready and we are eager to face Home.

"Hopefully we can work together as one, but for now we are not there yet.There is still a bit of individuality going on.

"The team is better than last season though.I hope these new imports can come through because they will be a confidence booster should they add some goals...But at the end what is important is athe win.

"We want to be champions but we know it isn't easy," continued Shahrazen, who joined the team in 2005.

Left back Sairol Sahari will miss the first match of the season after picking up a red card in the last match of the season against Balestier khalsa.

Veteran defender Pg Sallehuddin Pg Damit is expected to take Sairol's place tomorrow, though tales' ongoing battle to recover from a knee injury he picked up at the end of last season means he will play no part in tomorrow's tie.

"It is an honour to play alongside two experienced players in Santos and Dino," said Sairol.

"I think we have a physical advantage to get to the high ball with their height.

"We are ready for the S-League and the first game is very important.

"Winning would be a big morale-booster," he added.

"I think we are a stronger team than last season after watching the imports play.We even have a former World Cup player (Bosnjak) but the chemistry is not fully there yet," said Wardun. " We still need to work on blending together and we need time." 

DPMM FC got their pre-season friendlies off the wrong foot after losing 3-1 to Dong Thap FC yesterday at the Dong Thap Stadium in Vietnam.

Brunei's only professional team got the lead in the 35th minute after Portuguese striker Joao Victor Rocha De Carvalho Moreira connected on an Azwan Salleh cross from the left. 

Dong Thap FC equalised before halftime and grabbed the lead 10 minutes after the break.

The hosts then killed off the game with another goal in the 35th minute.

Fatigue could have played a role for DPMM considering that they left on Saturday and only arrived in Ho Chi Minh at midnight.The ride from the hotel to the match venue also took three hours.

The local trial players will face former Simunic team,TP Ho Chi Minh today and end their Vietnam sting against 2012 league's second runner-up Saigon Xuan Thanh FC on Wednesday. 

Geyalng international's coach V.Kana insists DPMM FC and Tampines Rovers will be the team's to beat in the next week's Singapore League.

The Eagles take on defending champions Tampines in the first day of the season on February 2o and their coach feels the Stags and DPMM FC are favourites for the title.

Geylang-who used to be known as Geylang United-lost last season's Singapore League Cup to DPMM and split their results in the league, so Kanan knows first hand the threat Brunei's only pro club can pose to Singapore football.

"Tampines and DPMM are two strongest teams this year," Kanan told Singapore daily The New Paper last week.

"I had wanted to play them both as early as possible.

"As the season progressed their players will get gel and they will get more difficult to play against.

"Of course playing them in the first week won't be easy either, but we are well prepared," said Kanan, who like Balestier Khalsa's Darren Stewartcame out second best to DPMM FC's coach Vjeran Simunic for last season's S-League Coach of the Year award.

Kanan is no strangers to awards though, and got the nod for the Geylang hot seat last year after leading the club's Prime League squad in 2011.

Like most clubs in the S-League, Geylang who finished 11th in the 13-table pile last season - have been active on the transfer market.

Bolstered by the signing of former Albirex Niigata goalkeeper Takuma Ito and defender Norihiro Nakami, the Eagles have also roped in Home's Shotaro Ihata -who netted 10 S-League goals last season- for an added edge in attack.

Though Kanan seemed to think Tampines are capable of going all the way this campaign.Tampines' coach did not want to put any additional pressure on his players.

Nenad Bacina also felt that all the teams that had a poor season in 2012 wll be eager to bounce back in 2013.

"It is a new season", the Croatian told the New Paper.

"For all the teams that didn't do well last year like Gaylang, they will come into this season very positivelt with new players and a new mood - we cannot compare this season with the last one.

"I definitely do not see why we should be the favourites for this game

"We play against the Warriors in the Charity Shiel and, five days later, we will play against Geylang, so it won't be easy for us.

At the end of last season, they played very good competitive and attrative football, so I don't see why they can't continue with the same approach," noted the former Hougang Utd coach and Warriors FC captain.

Football Association of Singapore(FAS) have only released the first five weeks of fixtures for the upcoming season.

DPMM FC will be flying to Vietnam for pre-season friendly against three Vietnamese teams from February 1-8.

However the team will not be playing Vietnam's best football clubs, with coach Vjeran Simunic saying that most of the country's top sodes nill be occupied with other domestic tournaments.

"The best football clubs in Vietnam are currently playing in other tournaments in other parts of Vietnam,so they will be most likely unavailable for the friendly matches," said the coach.

"However, we will still be playing against good teams and the players are looking forward for the trip," he said.

"Pre-season friendlies is very important for us and it is necessary.The players will benefit a lot from it and it will help us to go through the S-League campaign this season," he said.

Simunic also revealed last night that DPMM has agreed terms with Croatian 2006 World Cup striker Ivan bosnjak.

"Ivan is now in Croatia.But he will be back in Brunei before the pre-season friendlies in Vietnam.

He is a good player, but he needs to adjust to the team, and that is why the pre-season friendlies are necessary," he said.

Since leaving DPMM in October 2009, Simunic returned to his native Croatia for a short stint in charge of NK Medimurje before taking charge of Ho Chi minh City a year later.

He then returned to the Sultanate last year to guide DPMM to second in the S-League before winning the Singapore League Cup. 

DPMM FC are close to confirming all their imports for the upcoming Singapore League(S-League)season starting next month.

It is reported on the team's official website that "DPMM FC are to sign 2006 World Cup player Ivan Bosnjak".

The Croatian striker, an 987th minute substitute for captain Dario Srna during Croatia's 0-0 draw with Japan in their Group F match of the 2006 World Cup in Germany, will be Brunei only professional team's biggest signing in history.

The 33-year old, who has 14 caps and one international goal to his name, also laced up in six of Croatia's 2006 World Cup qualifying matches against Hungary,Malta,Sweden and Iceland,playing in both the home and away legs against Malta and Iceland.

He will join the other signings - Portuguese striker Joao Victor, Guadeloupean midfielder Stephen Auvray, Brazilian centreback Tales Ricarte dos Santos and compatriot defender Dino Drpic in the line-up.

Dos Santos is currently in Brazil recovering from a knee injury but is expected to be back before the start of the S-League.

It is also reported that DPMM FC is slated to fly to vietnam for pre-season friendly games against three Vietnamese teams from February 1-8. 

Combative midfielder Stephen Auvray, the guadeloupean national team captain seems to have settled down comfortabl at DPMM FC where he joins Croatian defender Dino Drpic and Portuguese striker Joao Moreira as three new imports in the team list.

The former New York Red bulls midfielder who joins the Singapore League runners-up in December, sais he has been enjoying his time in Brunei.

"I've been pleasantly surprised by the training facility and field," he replied when asked about his impressions of the club after last Saturday's training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

The conditions here are very good, the people here are welcoming and weathers' exactly like my country.

I like the guys' mentality and I've formed an understanding with then very quickly.

"The team has had some good results and thats important," added the 31-year old referring to DPMM FC's finish last season and their capture of the Singapore League Cup for the second time.

Auvray was a commanding presence during Saturday's training session which pitted the team's first-11 against the bench.

Not only did he impressed with his hard work, strength and tackling, the defesive midfielder also did well to spread play and looks to have sealed his spot in central midfield-where he will team up with captain Rosmin Khamis.

The dreadlocked Auvray was brought to replace Criatian Ivan Jerkovic, who was one of the three imports released by the Brunei's only professional club at the end of last season.

Auvray spent most of his time in the lower divisions of French football before moving to MLS side Spoting Kansas City in 2010 and then to Red Bulls, where he teamed up with friend and former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry.

Auvray's profile on the MLS website states he left his native Guadeloupe at the age of 14 to join the youth academy of French club SM Caen, which plays in Ligue 2.

He was promoted to caen B team in 1999,played in the French amateur team.Auvray appeared 41 times in three years and scored a goal during his time in Caen B, and in 2002,moved to GSI Pontivy,where he made 58 appearances and found the net four times during a two-year spell.

Auvray made 144 appearances for Vannes OC from 2004 to 2009 and scored one goal for the team that plays in the Championnat National, the third tier of French football.

He also appeared 11 times Logue 2 side Nimes Olympique in 2009 before a transfer to Spoting Kansas City. 

He laced up 27 times for Kansas City once in a friendly against Manchester United and moved to Red Bull in the middle of 2011 campaign.He spent less than a year at New Yorg though, and has been without a club since December 2011.

Despite being out of action for the better part of a year, he was hardly sluggish during Saturday's practice.His work ethic is sure to endear him to temamates and fans.

"I don't know much about the S-League but no matter where you play or who you play, you have to do your best,"he said about his aim for next season.

"Once you do your best, you will be rewarded and get what you deserve." 

DPMM FC might make its biggest signing in the next few days.

Croatian striker Ivan bosnja, 33, is the latest string of players who are trying out Brunei's only professional club- though the rest can't boast of ever playing at a World Cup.

Bosnjak an 87th minute substitute for captain Dario Srna during Croatia's 0-0 draw with Japan in their second Grop G match at the World Cup in Germany, is probably the most experienced footballer to step onto the team's grounds at the Jeruding Park Stadium- and he definitely impressed with his pace and power during yesterday's trainign session.

Bosnjak- who had 14 caps and 1 international to his name- also laced up in six of Croatia's 2006 World Cup qualifying matches against Sweden,Hungary, Mlata and Iceland,playing both in home and away legs against Malta and Iceland. 

He hard the opportunity to play for Brunei's biggest club from compatriot Dino Drpic, the centre-back becoming the club's latest signig after proving his worth during the team;s journey to Banda Aceh in a tournament recently.

The duo played together in Croatia for Dinamo Zagreb-who currently lead the top tier Prva HNL- from 2--4-2006, ending the 2005/6 season as league champions and Bosnjak with the competition's top-scorer with 22 goals.

Bosnjak has played for Belgian side Genk,Libyan team Al-Ittihad and Croatia's Cibalia-where he started his career under the guidance of DPMM FC coach Simunic. Like bosnjak, Simunic has also played for Hajdul split.

Bosnjak isn't here just to renew old friendships though.

"I didn't take a 25 hour flight just to look around," he noted.

"This is my first time playing with the team and I'm satisfied.I trained yesterday but today was my first time playing.

"I think I have more time, maybe 10 days.I will be fully adjusted," he added.

He didn't look to have any problems adjusting to yesterday's training session though.

He set up two goals in the second half with accurate crosses into the box, and he also impressed with his first touches, ability to shiled the ball and speed on the flanks - all attributes a striker of his calibre is ecpected to possess.

Drpic was a commanding presence in the middle of defense, with his positioning, serial prowess,distribution and dribbling -rare for a centre back looking to be his strengths."We're best friends," grinned Drpic asked how well he knows Bosnjak." I can see alot of potential here ," he replied when asked comments on his first impression of the club.

"Im sure we can make a good team," he insisted.

Next season's S-League regulations allow for 5 imports, and if Bosnjak does sign on, he will replace another Croatia named Ivan. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic feels that his local boys have grown up now.

The Croatian feels that there isn't too much worry about their preparations for the upcoming season of the league kicking off next month.

Simunic only requires abit more  time to allow the team to gel together with the import players.

"The Bruneian players have grown up and they have beenplaying together for a while now.Even thoigh we recently got back to full training but I'm not too worried because I can say we are at 70 per cent at the moment," said Simunic yesterday.

"It is not easy to find the best import playersto fit in especially since most would have been signed by other teams by now.

"But what we need now is time.We have a line-up change of foreign players and we will need them to coordinate with the local players," he added.

"Even if we have four (Lionel) Messis on the team we weren't be able to do anything if they can't play with the locals.

Hopefully rhe locals can maintain their level they were at last year or even improve.They were not limited to where they are right now.I feel that we able to compete the countries in the region," added the Croatain who watch his side steamroll DST Super League side ABDB 7-0 yesterday.

The team finished as runners-up in the league last season and became the first team to win the Singapore League Cup twice.

The head coach feels that it might be the biggest challenge to maintain their position. 

"Singapore are the champions of the AFF Suzuki Cup and we are going to be challenging the best in the region.

"We are ready for the league but we know it will be a tough challenge," said Simunic who was named the Coach of the Year last season.

"(Champion) Tampines are an excellent team and have reinforced themselves to become stronger for this upcomin season as well.

"Teams like SAF are playing in Thailand and Home Utd in Korea.That is what we are missing-the challenge of big teams.But we have to make the best of our situation by playing against the local teams,"he added.

"It will not be an easy task to maintain our top five target this year.We respect all teams and we are going to stand our ground.

"People have been talking about us and I think we have earned some respect after finishing as runners-up last season.We are one of the big teams now and others will be looking to topple us,"continued Simunic.

I'm also thankful to the playersthat have work commitments and still have to come all the way to training everyday as well,"he concluded. 

DPMM FC have signed their third import player for next season's Singapore League.

He will join the duo of Portuguese striker Joao Moreira, 26, and Guadeloupean midfielder Stephen Auvraym 31, to become the latest foreign to be picked up by Brunei's only professional football club.

DPMM FC now have two more slots to fill before the start of the new S-League season.

The Croatain has had 20 caps as a youth international and got his only call-up to represent his country in 2007 in a friendly match against Slovakia.

The 31-year old defender, who stands at 6ft 5in, spent nine seasons playing for Dynamo Zagreb from 2000-2009.

He then moved to Germany to play for Karlsruher SC and had a brief spells for AEK Athens in Greece and Volyn Lutsk in Ukraine before moving back to Croatia to lace up for HNK Rijeka last year. 

DPMM FC's manager, Ali Hj Momin has gone on to express his delight with the clubs new signings and feels that the team is bound to get better from last week's Governor Aceh Trophy campaign in Aceh provincial capital Banda,Aceh Indonesia.

 Both Portuguese striker Joao Victor Rocha Moreira and Guadeloupean midfielder Stephen Auvray have shown promising signs during the tournament with the former finding the net for the club in their 4-2 defeat against Semen Padang.

The manager said last night in an interview with the Times that he is convinced all the signings that have made this time will be able to replace the top stars Ivan jerkovic and Osman Bashiru who have left the club and that they are now looking to land some more silverware this season.

"The two new signings played very well in their games.They have proved throughout the tournament that they are the right players for us. Both of them did not start in the games, but they managed to make an impact when they were brought in,"said the manager.

The DPMM manager feels that it is a good sign that one of their new players has started to score, since it shows how the team has come together over the last couple of weeks.

"It is good to our new striker,Joao Moreira scored in the tournament.The aim of this tournament is to look and assess the performance of the new imports and how they can work together with the rest of the squad," he said.

" it was a very good outing for us.We got the chance to play against the Indonesia Premier League champions Semen Padang and Malaysian champions Kelantan in the tournament.

"Now the players will need a good rest before we start our training in January," he added. 

DPMM FC will take on home United in their Singapore League opener at the Bishan Stadium in Singapore on February 21.

The Football Association of Singapore informed the 12 S-League clubs of the tentative schedule for the first five match weeks yesterday, with the full fixtures for the season expected to be announced by the end of the week.

Last season's S-League runner-up, DPMM FC host Hougang in their first home game on March 1 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

They then face Court Young Lions in their third week of action on March 7 and Japanese outfit Albirex Niigata in the fourth week on March 11, the games set to be played at Singapore's Jalan Besar Stadium and Jurong East Stadium respectively.

Brunei's only pro club will sit out the fifth match which will run from March 20-24.

All of the club's away matches will kick-off at 7.30pm while the home matches will start at 8.15pm.

The S-League season officially kicks-off next Fridaywhen tampines, the reigning cchampions take on Singapore Cup holders Warriors formrly known as SAF in the Charity Shiled at the jalan Besar Stadium.

Online news portal reported that the delay in announcing the fixtures was down to talks between FAS and Football Association of Malaysia(FAM) to avoid clashes involving teams playing in the S-League, Malaysia Super League and Malaysia Premier League(MPL).

Games in the MPL are usually plays on Mondays and Fridays evenings, while games in the MSL are usually played on Tuesdays,Fridays and Saturdays.

The delay has not gone down well with s-League fans and coaches alike, with one bench boss pointing out that the wait for news had disrupted his team's preparations.

"It is not convenient for us to prepare the team.What happens if we are scheduled to play DPMM, pobably the strongest team this year away from home in our first match," an S-League coach told on the condition of anonymity. "We need to be mentally ready for the first three to four teams that e play but right now, we know nothing and our first game is two weeks away."

"I can understand that the FAS need to meet up with the FAM to sort out the issues but I certainly believe that they could have done it much earlier." 

Brunei DPMM FC were beaten on penalties by Selangor FA after the third and fourth play-off ended 1-1 after 90 minutes at the Harapan Bangsa Stadium in Banda Aceh,Indonesia last night.

Shahrazen Said drew first blood when he struck in the 28th minute to make it three goals in four outings.

However, complacency crept into Brunei DPMM's game and just when it seemd they were set for the third place finish, the Malaysians scored an equalizer before the final whistle.

Selangor FA held their resolve, and triumphed 3-2 on penalties,when Rosmin Khamis,Amalul Ariffin and Azam Hendra missed their spotkicks, only Shahrazen and Adi Said scored.

"I'm very happy with the boys. They did afantastic job," Simunic remarked during a phone interview with the Bulletin.

"It was a nice competition but was not easy to prepare for.We played with two import players in most of the games,and today it was all Bruneians."

The tournament was like the Asian Champions League.There were two of the best teams in Indonesia and two of the best teams in Malaysia playing, so I'm very happy with how the boys played." 

DPMM FC went down 4-2 to Semen Padang FC in their Governor Acheh Trophy opener last night after a Titus Bonai hat-trick inspired the Indonesians to a comfortable win in Banda Aceh, Indonesia.

According to Semen Padangs FC's twitter feed, Titus put the Indonesian Premier League reigning champions 2-0 after strikes in the 4th and the 18th minute, but midfielder Azwan Salleh would pull one back for the visitors before the break at the Lhoong Raya Stadium.

Edward Junior Wilson made it 3-1 in the 53rd minute and DPMM FC new signing, Joao Moreira cut the deficit back to one goal in the 65th minute before Titus bagged his third eight minutes from time.

DPMM FC will face Kelantan in their next match in their three-team group. 

DPMM FC know this week's Governor Aceh Trophy in Banda Aceh,Indonesia will test their fitness and stamina to the limit.

DPMM FC take on Kelantan on Saturday and Indonesia outfit Semen Padang on Sunday.

Both champions of their respective leagues they are just the kind of opponents DPMM will be looking to play as they prepare for next season's SIngapore League.

The other group will see Malaysian giants Selangor face hosts Banda Aceh and fellow Indonesian side Makassar United, with the top two teams advancing to the next Wednesday's semifinals.

Leaving for Indonesia today, DPMM FC captain Rosmin Khamis admitted that the Governor Aceh Trophy will prove to be a tougher assignment.

"Its very hard to play two games in two days ...  Players need 48 hours to recover after every match," pointed out the skipper yesterday. But preseason warm-up tournaments like these are important. I think training has been going well...and the games in Aceh will give us the chance to better judge the four players who are on trial with us."

"I know that Kelantan will be bringing some of their on-trial players and I heard Keita Mandjou will be one of them," said Rosmin referring to the former DPMM and Perak striker who ended the 2006/7 campaign as joint top-scorer with Shahrazen Said.

It is understood that DPMM will be bringing a striker, two midfielders and one defender with them to Indonesia.

Though DPMM had a two-week break after the S-League ended on Nov 2,Shahrazen feels the team is back to normal in terms of fitness.

However, he still thinks the games in Banda Aceh will be tough on the players-though he feels it is a challenge he team is up for.

"Playing two games in as many days is bound to take a toll on the players," said Shahrazen, who was the team's top-scorer last season.

"Its very important for us to have warm-up games like these, because last time we had only 1 game against Changrai.

"Personally my target is for us to reach the semifinals.Once we get there, anything can happen.I don't know much about Semen Padang but I do know Kelantan are the defending champions," he added.

Kelantan have been the most successful team in Malaysia over the past few years, evident from their form in Malaysia's top-tier MSL.

They are also the defending champions in the Malaysia Cup-a trophy they won for the first time in 2010.

Semen Padang are no pushovers either, the team are the reigning champions.

Although the Wasps captain feels that early preparations will be advantageous for the upcoming season, he cautioned against complacency as other clubs have also boosted their teams.

Although Brunei DPMM lifted the League Cup in 2012, the S-League title eluded them as they ended the season as runners-up, four points behind champions Tampines Rovers.

Keen to improve on that for the upcoming 2013 campaign, the club resumed training a few weeks after the previous season ended with the local players, in addition to holding tryout sessions for foreigners.

Speaking to Goal.com Singapore, club captain Rosmin Khamis had nothing negative to say about the early start to the new season and added that he is pleased with the new foreign players' ability to adapt to their new surroundings.

"We had a good preparation as per normal and also took part in aninvitational tournament in Aceh in December.

"Thankfully we had the tournament in Aceh, as we were able to play with the new foreign players and suit ourselves to each other's playing style."

DPMM FC has retained Brazilian defender Tlaes dos Santos while also signing Portuguese striker Joao Moreira and Guadeloupean Stephane Auvray, with the latter featuring in Aceh.

The Sultanate outfit has also secured the services of former AEK Athens defender Din Drpic nd finalized the signing of former Croatian international Ivan Bosnjak.

While Rosmin hopeful that the club is able to improve on their standings this season, the 31-year old midfielder is cautious of the other teams, who have also beefed up their squads.

"We will try to improve on our achievement of the previous season, but it will not be easy as the other teams have also done their own homework and signed quality players,"he explained.

"So our target is to take each game at a time and hopefully, results will go our way." 

DPMM FC have taken a huge gamble by deciding to field a changed line-up for next season's Singapore League.

Training resumes on Tuesday, but unlikr last season, there will be a few familiar faces missing at the Jerudong Stadium - Croatian Ivan Jerkovic the most notable.

The highly experienced midfielder- who was surprisingly released with two other imports - was considered one of the team's elder statesmen alongside captain Rosmin Khamis and vice captain Pg Sallehuddin Damit.

Highly respected by players and fans alike, the club's decision to release the calm and composed Jerkovic is dumbfounding, especially since it does not like they have a replacement line-up.

Striker Osman Bashiru and Patrick da Silva could perhaps be faulted for not contributing enough to the team, and hence their return to Ghana and Brazil respectively.

But Jerkovic's symbiotic partnership in the middle of the field with Rosmin has been the foundation the team;s two S-League seasons were build on- season's in which they won the Singapore League Cup twice and finished last term.

DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic who called the S-League coach of the Year award he won last Sunday as the "crown" of his time at DPMM, knows how just important continuity is for success.

For that to happen though, they need experienced heads the like of Jerkovic,33 and Pg Sallehuddin,39, to lead by example.

Injury has prevented Sallehuddin from featuring in as many games as he would have liked to,but whenever he laced-up, the facts were there for all to see.

"We won all 11 gmaes that Salleh played in all season," pointed out Simunic.

"If we are to get other imports...They should be like Salleh  and know how to read the game,"he sais, adding that he would like to see towering centreback Tales dos Santos back from injury next season.

A large reason S-League clubs like champions Tampines Rovers have been so successful is that they have benefited from naturalised Singaporean like Aleksandar Duric and Fahridin Mustafic and the ability to sign imports on top of that. 

Ask any Tampines fans and they will wax lyrical about Mustafic?and the evergreen Duric, who despite being 42, is still  mongst the most feared strikers in the league. 

Simunic has always been a proponent of developing talent, with the likes of striker Adi Said, midfielder AK Fakharazzi and defender Ampuan Nurul Azami all making a name for themslves last season.

It is up to them to step up to the third plate when the new season kicks off in February,but carrying the team on their shoulders is perhaps too big a task to ask of them just yet 

He likes making people think he's crazy - and proving them wrong.

Brunei DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic lapped up the attention after he was named the Mikasa Coach of the Year at the S-League Awards Night ceremony on Sunday night at ITE College East.

He said the awatd made him feel vindicated after some questioned his decision to quit Vietnamese club Ho Chi Mnh City to take over the reins at DPMM FCwhere he was head coach in 2009.

"When I did that, alot of people said I was crazy," he said.

"Why would someone leave a good team, with good in money in a strong football country in South East Asia to go in Brunei? But I showed them.

"Same thing in Brunei I said I would make DPMM one of the top teams in the S-League, they said I was crazy.

"But see where we are now."

Simunic guided DPMM to the StarHub League Cup title and pushed Tampines Rovers all the way to the last day of the league title race, eventually finishing with a runners-up medal.

Still, he's more than happy.

And in true fashion, he had no qualms in explaining why he deserved his individula gong on Sunday.

Looking down at the award in his right hand,he said:"Two medals and this?Perfect.

I can tell you I am very proud to win the Coach of the Year award.

"To take this when there great coaches like Darren Stewart,On Kim Swee and Sugiyama is not easy.

"But I think based on results, I deserve it...Plus we scored25 goals(more than half the team's total)from set-pieces and that is something the coach can take credit for."

Simunic said he is astually looking forward to next season, and wants to deliver the coveted S-League title for HRH Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, who is also the chairman of DPMM FC.

Online reports suggets the wealthy Brunei club are looking at former English Premier League stars like Luis Boa Morte and Pascal Chimbonda for next seasonbut the coach was mum on the issue.

He said he was unaware who were being lined up for the end-of-season trials for foreigners at the club but "welcomed" big names.

Added Simunic: "Most importantly I want my image out on the pitch every time the team plays.They must have my character and attitude, and they are slowly changing.

"It is not easy to come to a country like Bruneiand take players who have no professional league,and make a good team.

"But we are doing it,and I think next year, we will be back stronger."

While the S-League title is next on his hitlist,Simunic also revealed a personal ambition - to lead the Brunei national team in the future,professing his love for DPMM and the country he resides in.

"In 20 years as a coach, this is the first time I've at one club for more than one year,"said the well-travelled coach. I tell you what's my dream: To lead Brunei in the Suzuki Cup.

"I think they have the players to be the next Philippines,to compete against the other South East Asian countries.

"But instead,my players will be sitting at home later this month,watching the tournament on TV.

"Maybe I can help them get there in 2014."

Sounds unlikely?Craze even?Well,that's just the way Simunic likes it. 

Former SAFFC captain Nenad Bacina has his work cut out for him as he takes over at the helm of defending champions Tampines Rovers, who have assembled a new-look squad for 2013 season.

With a squad boasting quality foreign players such as towering Serbian striker Saad Hadzibulic and Singapore national players such as Shahdan Sulaiman,Khairul Amri, Shaiful Esah and newly-appointed captain Mustafic Fahrudin, Bacina hopes to have a decent campaign in both local and regional competition.

"The target is always the same, as this is Tampines.We are playing in three domestic and one regional tournament and we will do our best domestically and go further in the AFC Cup," the Croatian stressed.

"Singapore clubs always lose when they meet Middle-East teams in the knockout stages so I want us to show that local  clubs are able to go a level higher.

"It won't be easy but my job is to make things work and hopefully it will work for us."

The 42-year old who coached Hougang United last season, is undaunted by the challenge of doing well in four competitions.

"Those who don't like the challenges and sit in the shade and hide.I am not that kind of person,"Bacina assertively stated.

"I hope to continue the good run by Singapore in regional competitions.The LionsX11 and the national team have been doing their best for the last few years and we have a good chance to move further, not only for us but Singapore as well."

Also joining the squad will be former Argentine top-flight player, midfielder Martin wagner, who last played for Racing Club in the Primera Division.

Wagner started his professional career with Olimpo de Bahia Blanca in 2004 and also part of the team who relagated from the Primera Liga in 2006, but bounced back the following season after winning the Primera B Nacional Arpetura and Clausura Championship. 

"We expect him to help us and vice versa but I don't like to put pressure on a singel player as its all about team work, and I hope he'll gel with us very well,"he explained.

Wagner also earned praise from his new boss, chairman Teo Hock Seng.

"I have been to Argentina few times and the level of football there is very high.He comes from Racing, a top-five club there,"he said.

Bacina will be assisted by former Singapore international Rafi Ali, who was also named the Stags' new Prime League coach,replacing Steven Tanwho was removed as the club's head coach towards the end of the  last season.

Singapore League Cup champions Brunei DPMM FC have confirmed that they have released three foreign players, namely strikers Osman Bashiru and Patrick da Silva, as well as midfielder Ivan Jerkovic.

Croatian Jerkovic netted six times for the Bruneians in the recently concluded 2012 S.League season, while Ghanaian and Brazilain da Silva bagged five and four goals respectively as the Bruneians finished second.

The fourth foreign player in the roster, Brazilian Tales dos Santos,is still contrated to the club. The giant centreback was forced to sit out his team's last two league matches due to a knee injury, and is currently recuperating back home.

With the release of the above-mentioned trio, the Bruneians have set their eyes on several former English Premier League (EPL) stars, including former West Ham and Fulham midfielder Luis Boa Morte and ex-Tottenham Hotspur full-back, Pascal Chimbonda.

Brunei's onky professional club have also invited Brazilian Edison Luiz dos Santos, Liberian Dominic Jlateh and Nigerian Sibi Gwar along with the two former EPL stars for a try-out session.

Striker Edison last played for Hungarian top division club,Kecskemeti TE. Prior to his move to hungary,Edison scored 23 goals and won the golden boot while plying his trade with Hibernians in the Maltese league.

Jlateh, the son of ex-Liberian international Aloysius Jlateh, finished as the top-scorer with 20 goals for Liberian Premier League side, FC Fatu in the recent 2012 season.

Super Eagles international Gar has twice won the NFA Golden Boot, during the 2008 and 2012 Nigeria Premier League seasons with Lobi Stars and Kwara United respectively.

The 25-year old midfielder received his first international call up on August this year when he was named in the Nigeria squad for a friendly against Niger.

The try-out session will be held in the Sultanate at the end of November. 

Brazilian centreback Tales Ricarte Dos Santos will be rooting for DPMM FC  to beat Balestier Khalsa in their last league game of the season tonight despite being thousands of miles away.

Forced to sit out the last two games due to kee injury, he returned to Brazil last Sunday for surgery and admits the missed opportnity to play in tonight's title decider is weighing on his mind.

DPMM FC trail league leaders and defending champions Tampines Rovers by one point and will need a win against Balestier, combined with a slip-up from Tampines when they meet Harimau Muda tonight to clinch the title for the first time.

"I'm said I can't finish the season but injuries are part of players careers," he admitted on Tuesday.

"I want to be on the field to help my team-mates against Balestierbut I just have to support them from here.

"Balestier are a good side..but I'm confident we can win because we are having a bright season,"added the 28-year old, who was instrumental to the team's victorious Singapore League Cup campaign in August. 

The Brazilian who joined at the start of the season in February, has earned a reputation as a reliable defender and the team's fans have long recognised the importance of his timely tackles and aerial prowess.

Though DPMM FC's home matches at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium lead S-League attendance records, regulars at the home of Brunei football will readily admit that the crowd support over the past few months has been dissapointing by DPMM FC standards.

But with electronic products such as a LG 55 inch television, a MacBook Air and iPhone 5 up for grabs during a lucky draw after the match,fans should be swarming the stadium in droves.

Dos Santos stressed that a big turnout will be crucial in picking up for all three points,and with the defender spreading the word about his new club in Brazil, it looks like Brunei's only professional club has a few new international fans.

"I hope it will be a full stadiumbecause we have the chance to win the league," he said.

"We can win two titles ... and DPMM FC have never produced a season like this before.

"Its important that the fans fill the stadium because it motivates us and makes playing more enjoyable.

"People in Brazil wants to know more about Brunei football and the S-League, and they're starting to know about DPMM FC as well since I have given some interviews here." 

Winning only one of nine pre-season friendlies might be a problem for most coaches.

Then again, DPMM FC's Vjeran Simunic isn't like most coaches.

DPMM FC returned from s Sinagpore League warm-up in Vietnam last week with one win in five matches, a poor return by any account. They were also in Indonesia in December to compete at the governor Aceh trophy, where they only claimedtwo draws and two losses in the six-team invitational tournament, losing out on third to Malaysian gaints Selangor.

Factor in the injury that their biggest signing to date, Croatian international Ivan Bosnjak, suffered in the first minute in their first match in vietnam which left him watching the whole week from the sidelines and one would think Simunic would be a worried man.

Star striker Shahrazen said also returned from Vietnam with a knock which kept him out yesterday's training session at the Jeruding Mini Stadium, and brazilian centreback Tales Ricarte is still in his native land recovering from a knee injury.

Despite everything, last year's S-League Coach of the Year remains unfazed.

"I am happy we were able to challenge some of the most respectedteams in the region," Simunic beamed yesterday of their pre-season friendlies.

"Our intention was to improve, not get results, so generally I'm satisfied with how we played in Vietnam.

"We ended every game with differebt players than when we started, and my whole aim in Vietnam was to test out all the players.

"We have 19 local players and I tested all of them, and I'm happy with how they all played especially our defenders.

"If I wanted results I would have put out our strongest first-11 and stuck with them for 90 minutes.

"Do you know that Wardun only played one game in Vietnam?

"We learnt a lot in vietnam.The players there were really physical...Wrestling, like rugby. So we took some lessons from that," added the Croatian, who used to coach Vietnamese side Ho chi Minh City before returning to Brunei for his second stint with DPMM FC in 2011.

Geylang International's coach V.Kanan last week said that DPMM FC and Tampines would be the teams to beat this season, but it is obvious Simunic isn't believing the pre-season hype.

He does though, believe that more hard work is needed if DPMM are to continue being a talking point in Singapore football.

"I'm happy with our success last season,and how we were able to improve on our Top-5 goal," said Simunic, who took the title down to the wire before losing to Tampines on the last day of the season.

"We onot only have good players, they have also good personalities and high-level training that is why others respect us and people speak about us.

"We have to defend our rating which is now very high.

"We're a very young team and we have don't enough experience but I trust every player.

"Last season the four imports did a good job, now I am expecting the same if not better." 

Vjeran Simunic insists he isn't feeling any pressure ahead of DPMM FC's biggest game in its history tonight.

The only tema to win the Singapore League Cup twice have the chance to add the Singapore LEague to their trophy cabinet, which will not only ne the club's biggest prize in its 12-year history but also serve as a testament to their character and resilience after an absence of two years from competitive football.

They aren't masters of their own fate though.Not onlt they have to beat Balestier Khalsa tonight, they have to hope for a slip up from the defending champions, Tampines Rovers- who they trail by one point[ when the Stags meet Harimau Muda in the other match-both the last games for all the four clubs.

Though Simunic isn't losing any sleep because of the title race, he couldn't hide his disappointment that the tem have to rely on Harimau for favours,

"I'm very calm," said the DPMM coach before their final training of the season at the Jeruding Mini Stadium yesterday.

"So whaterver happens, happens. What I can tell you is that DPMM is still the team of the year! We've scored the most goals and played atractive football.

"The players are feling confident .A few of them are down with flu and fever, its normal.I guess its because of the weather.Today I asked if they can play and they all said they're all ready!

But this is not a deciding game, like final where eveything is in your hands, we need help from others," he sighed.

Hrimau Muda will be fielding a second-string side against Tampines as a result of injury and national team call-ups for several players, a situation which Simunic felt didn't warrant too much discussion.

"As for Tampines-Muds, I have no comment.Once I knew they are without 4 key players who are on national duty, I decied I would not comment on the game," he stated.

The veteran coach has other matters to think about, as not only Brazilain centreback Tales dos Santos out for the rest of the season, his replacement Pg Sallehuddin is suspended for the game.

Ampuan Nurul Azami will replace the veteran defender and Simunic believes the ability of the team's fringe players to step up to the plate has made a big difference in the club's current campaign.

"Ampuan will be replacing Salleh and that is something I have been hoping for since I rejoined the club since last year ... That every player can be replaced by someone on the bench...that we have a team of 18 equals," he said.

"We have been in trouble for some games and we lost key players but they were replaced by bench players.We rcovered, and that is why DPMM are in the position now," he insisted. 

His counterpart Darren Stewart also paid tribute to DPMM FC's spirit but was adamant that his team would be in awe of tonight's opponents.

Balestier will fifnish the season sixth regardless of tonight's outcome, but the Australian- who was thankful has a full sqi=uad to choose from- wants his players to go out with a bang.

"We had a good year and we're preety   confident," said Stewart.

"We're ready for the game, we're well organised and the big crowd won't affect us since we've played few pre-seasons in Malaysia and they were all big crowds.

"DPMM FC are a quality team with a god coach, who's a good guy as well.

"They never give up and I think that their biggest strength-the reason they are where they are right now," he added.

Do DPMM have what it takes to win the league though?

"I hope Tampines slip-up and I hope Brunei do too, because if not then we'll lose," Stewart laughed.

DPMM FC yesterday announced the signing of two new import players for next season's Singapore League.

Portuguese striker Joao Victor Rocha De Carvalho Moreira,  26, and Guadeloupean midfielder, Stephen Auvray, 31, have become the latest foreign players to be picked up by Brunei's only professional club - who are currently playing in an invitational tournament in Banda Aceh, Indonesia.

A player profile sent by DPMM FC yesterday stated that Moreira has represented Portugal at the Under-20 and Under-21 level. Auvray who captains his national team, formerly laced-up for Major LEaague Soccer outfit New York Red Bulls.His profile describes him as a "defensive midfielder known for his aggressive tackling."

The duo join Brazilian centre-back Tales Ricarte dos Santos as the club's three imports. Last season's S-League runners-up are still in the hunt for two more imports before the next season starts in February.

Moreira has already had an impact with the club after finding the net in both of DPMM FC's games at the Governor Aceh Trophy; a 4-2 loss to Indonesian side Semen Padang and a 1-1 draw to Malaysia Super League champions Kelantan on Sunday.

DPMM FC are through to tomorrow's semifinal against Aceh united after the Indonesian side beat Selangor 1-0 last night. Last night's other result saw Kelantan lose their second match of the six team tournament against Semen Padang 4-2.

DPMM FC, however progressed to the last four as group runners-up after a draw was carried out with Kelantan since both teams shared exactly the same statistics.The final is set for Saturday. 

DPMM FC players have all been declared fit for next month's Singapore League(S-League)

Last season's S-League's runners-up were faced with a dilemma at te start of the 2012 campaign when eight of their players failed to make the grade during the mandatory fitness test.

They were no such problems during this year's edition though, when six S-League officialsconducted the Cooper test at DPMM FC's Jerudong Mini Stadium yesterday morning.

The test was created in 1968 by American Dr. Ken Cooper and is meant to gauge the distance the participants could cover in 12 minutes.

The S-League version, though requires the players to run 2.4 km in 10.15 minutes.

A bonus was given for those that completed the run in less than 9 minutes, and DPMM FC's coach felt that more players would have have received the $100 bonus if they have known about it earlier.

"Everybody passed,there were no problems," said Vjeran Simunic.

"Helmi did it in less than 9 minutes and and he got $100.

"But many other players were close to helmi's time.Shahrazen was three seconds off the mark and Najip was two seconds.

"If they knew about the reward,I'm sure half of them would have done it in less than 9 minutes," added the Croatian.

The Cooper test marks a move away from the much-criticised beep test which was used by the S-League last year.

A gauge of cardiovascular fitness, the multi-stage beep tests requires the players to run between 20 m spaced cones, with their speed increasing in accordance to increasing beeps.

With the fitness test out of the way, Simunic is turning his attention to more pressing matters.

The S-League season starts on February 20, and though the fixture list has not been made public, DPMM FC are making sure they will be match-fit by embarking on a trip to Vietnam this week where they will play friendly games against three Vietnamese sides.

They face Vietnamese premier outfit Dong Thap, TP Ho Chi Minh and 2012 second runners-up in the premier league,Saigon Xuan Thanh.

"Now the second thing, very important, is how we play the games in Vietnam," said Simunic, who is well-versed with Vietnam football after coaching Vietnamese Ho Chi Ming City in 2011.

"We're expecting 30,00 people watching the games.

"They like football very much in Vietnam and not many famous foreign sides likes us having played there.

"We are representing the Singapore League, and the Vietnamese know it is a very well respected league." 

DPMM FC will have to settle for second in the Singapore LEague after putting in a dull display to lose 2-0 to Balestier Khalsa last night's title decider- the first time they were held goaless at home all season and snapping a five game winning streak.

Failing to shigt gears as the match wore on, DPMM FC found it tough to break doen a resilient Balestier defence and eventually fellto their third home loss of the league campaign- a resut a combined with Tampines win over Harimau Muda in last night's other match, saw the Stags retain their crown.

DPMM FC's midfield had a hard time playing as a unit despite the sizeable support at the soaked Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

They struggled to penetrate Balestier Khalsa's defence and found chances few and far in between in a game they had to win and hope for dropped points from Tampines.

The club can still look back at their first full league campaign- theit debut in 2009 was stopped five games to go because of FIFA's suspension to Brunei- as one filled with numerous positives though,becoming the only team to win the Singapore League Cup for the second time in Augustand blooding in new talents in the likes of Adi Said and Ampuan Md Nurul Azami.

Add in the fact that the team was left out of competitive football for the 2 years because of suspension,finishing second was a huge achievement-especially considering their target at the start was only in the top-5.

The 75th minute substitution of injured centreback Ampuan Nurul Azami and Hj Subhi abdillah changed the face of last night's game, and Balestier stunned the stadium when Zulkiffli Hashim headed a 80th minute goaland Park Kang-Jin produced an even bigger shocker by chipping Wardun Yussof seven minutes later-both goals coming from fluid counter-attacks.

Balestier looked content to sit back with their five man backline and play on the break, a tactic which earned their 12th clean sheet of the league campaign and proving just why they have the stingiest defence in the league after only letting in 20 goals this season.

Attributing to the loss of bad luck DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic said that Fahrudin Mustafic's penalty in the 41st minute demotivated the players once the news filtered down to the dressing room at half time.

"When we wnt into the break and heard that Tampines were ahead...The boys went down," admitted Simunic.

"I knew that it would he hard when Ampuan and Subhi were injured adn I had to take them out.

"Like what I've said before Balestier are a team with the beat organisation.

They are waited for us to make a mistake and we took risks to try and win the game but we lost," added the Croatian. 

Balestier's Zdavko Dragicevic scuttled the first chance in the game with a weak attempt in the seventh minute, with Azwan Salleh's long attempt in the 16th  minute DPMM FC's first shot of note.

Ivan Jerkovic had the best chance for the hosts after winning the ball in thr middle and forcing a save from Zakariah Nerani after a shot from outside the box on the half-hour mark.

Ruhaizad Ismail should have given the visitors the lead nine minutes later but balzed the shot wide despite only have Wardun to bat with both his and Dragicevic's chances coming from Park's crosses.

Perhaps sensing that DPMM FC were reelong from the news that Tampines were ahead, Blaestier came out the hungrier side at the start of the second half, with their brst chances coming in the 53rd minute when Ruhaizad hit the side netting.

The unmarked Patrick da Silva had a golden opportunity to put DPMM infront but was unable to test Zakariah with a shot from outside the box after Blaestier failed to clear the lines in the 70th minute.

PArk forced Wardub into a double save in the 76th minute, but Balestier wouldn't be denied 4 minutes later when the ever reliable captain Rosmin Khamis was robbed off the ball by three players after spending too long with un midfield.

Flowing forward with intent,Andrew Tan sent in a delight cross from thr left to Zul who headed home past a diving Wardun.

Though Rosmin would later apologise for the mistake, the damage was already done.

With momentum on their side,Balestier scored another goal against the runof play when their defence booted a DPMM corner kick up the field an onto the onrushing PArk.

He raced through to goal without a defender in sight and cooly chipped the onrushing Wardun -with leftback Sairol Sahri receiving his second yellow for protesting.

DPMM FC's Portuguese striker Joao Victor Roccha de Carvalho Moreira is looking forward to getting down to work.

Moreira is one of the team's three new imports for next season's campaign along with guadeloupe national team captain Stephen Auvray and Croatian defender Dino Drpic, nad he seemed preety sure why last season's league runners-up signed him.

"My Job is to score and help DPMM FC in every competition," said the 26-year old, who has represented his country at the Under-20 and Under-21 level.

"Training has been going well but this is just the beginning so I can't say much ... But we are working hard to get fit and be ready for the next month's league.

"I think I am a good header of the ball, am fast and have good technique," Moreira said of his stregths when met during DPMM FC's training last week.

Moreira put pen to paper last month after finding the net in both of DPMM FC's game at the Governor Trophy in Indonesia.

Playing at various lower division sides in Spain and Portugal, Moreira's biggest claim to fame came during the 2008/9 season, where he played for Portuguese side Biera Mar - which played in Portugal's top-tier competition, the Primeira Liga.

He will eb expected to shoulder some of the scoring burden from Shahrazen Said, the club's main striker and team's top-scorer in last season's league with 13 goals.

Moreira will be Shahrazen's third striking partner in the space of one year after Ghanain Osman Bashiru and Brazilians Rodrigo Gral and Patrick Da Silva became the latest in the long list of foreign strikers to pass through DPMM FC's revolving door.

Brazilian centre back tales Ricarte dos Santos is the only returning import from last season, and though he is in Brazil recuperating from a knee injury, the 28-year old towering defender is expected to be back in time for next season's league.

Croatian Ivan Bosnjak, who represented his country at the 2006 World Cup in germany, is currently on trial with the club -and the striker certainly impressed during last Saturday's training session where the club's starting-11 went up against the bench.

The 33-year old Bosnjak has 14 caps and 1 international goal to his name, but only played 3 minutes during the 2006 World Cup where he came on as a substitute for Darijo Srna during Croatia's 0-0 draw with Japan in their Goup F match. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic insists he is not perturbed at his side's battle with Tampines Rovers for the Great Eastern-YEO's S-League title.

Simunic's charges ensured the titlerace will go down to thevfinal week after beating Hougang United 3-1 on Wednesday evening, and are currently just oen point behind the Stags.

While DPMM enter next week's game against Balestier Khalsa with every chance of winning the league, especially with Tampines facing tough test against harimau Muda, the Croatian tactician insists even finishing second would be a tremendous achievement for them. 

"Right now, our target is to reach 51 points (DPMM are currently on 48)," he said after the game. "If Tampines slip us, we will be celebrating.

"If not, it still is history in the making for DPMM to finish second in the league.

"I'm very proud of what we've done overall, I'm very satisfied with the season."

The ex-Hajduk Split goalkeeper also admitted Wednesday's win over the Cheetahs had been a tough one, and is expecting a sililar game next week against Balestier.

"Like I expected, it was a tight game just like it had been in our last games against Geylang and Tanjomg Pagar," he added.

"Every game is a big game if you want to be at the top and now, I will not think about Hougang anymore. Now, I am only thinking about Balestier, who are a good side and will be tough to beat."

Hougang coach Nenad Bacina was upbeat despite the defeat, and believes his side more than matched their more-illustrious opponents.

"Playing against a good side like DPMM meant they didn't give us many chances," he said. " But I thought we defended well.

"We ended up conceding from two set-pieces and gave good resistance to our opponents."

Wednesday's defeat also meant the end of an impressive nine-game unbeaten run in the league for the Cheetahs, and the croat admits their good form had to come to an end sooner or later.

"We cannot expect to perform in every match," Bacina added."But generously, I'm happy with the performance.

"Of course, I cannot be happy with the result." 

He is regarded as an icon. A marquee. A star.

But SAFFC signing Kazuyuki todahas firmly stressed he is not here to carry the team or even the S-League alone,nor does he wish to impose himself upon the Warriors colleagues.

Excited journalists were greeted with a video presentation featuring Toda, red-haired in his days as a Japanese international, before Warriors general manager Chong Wei Chang, who had a satisfied smile on his face, addressed the room.

"SAFFC are very excited and delighted to finally secure the services of Toda for this season,"declared Chong.

"We did not live up to expectations for the past few years and it is a top objective for us to become a strong title contender for this season. Hence we went all out to secure the signing of Toda.

"We would like to take the opportunity to thank the S-League for making this deal come true. Without their effort and funding, this would not have been possible. 

"All the officials and players have done their part in helping Toda to settle down here. I believe we have very much to look forward to and be excited for the coming season."

Chong was swift to add that the club had signed several top locals to strengthen their bid for the domestic double in 2013 including the Singapore international Sho Jiayi and promising forward Sufian Annuar, who had last played for the Malaysian Super League side Lions XII.

The main attraction nonetheless was Toda, whose professional career started in 1996 when he joined J-League side Shimizu S-Pulse.

Launched into international prominence when Japan hosted the World Cup in 2002, the midfielder subsequently enjoyed stints at English premier side Tottenham Hotspurand Dutch side Ado Den Haag, before returning to Japan in 2004.

He spent 2012 donning the colours of his hometown side Machida Zelvia,a second-tier outfit based in Tokyo,but decided would move abroad one more timefour years after a brief spell with Gyeongnam

"I received what I felt was a great offer from SAFFC when I was still contacted to Machida,"expalained Toda.

"I still have the confidence as a football player and I like the opportunity to challenge myself again in a new country.Thats why I decided to come to Singapore to join SAFFC."

"To be honest, I don't know very much about the S-League, apart from the involvement of Japanese players and Albirex Niigata.But having played in England and Holland before, I've learnt about adjusting myself to a foreign environment.I've no problem with that.

"Its true the weather here is different, but in Japan it can really get hot in the summer as well.It will take my body to get a while to it but I don't think I have to adjust my playing style too much to suit the weather."

Toda becomes the first big name signed under the revived "marquee player" scheme, which was put together late last year by S-League Chief Executive Officer Lim Chin in an effort to significantly raise the profile of the competition among local football watchers.

While other clubs- most notably reigning S-League champions Tampines Rovers and Bruneian side DPMM FC - have been linked with a number of world class faces,it is the RHB Singapore Cup holders who have closed the first actual deal.

Swiftly lauded by his new colleagues, coach Salvaraj quipped that"one look at the airport I knew he was a true professional.

"I am well aware of the fact that I will have responsibilities to fulfill in the S-League and there will be expectations from the crowd,"he remarked.

"But I am ready to have the crowd come and I am looking forward to perform well in the league

"I think it is quite impossible for me to let the team win all by myself,thoughfootball is a team sport.

"What I can promise that i will give my very best performanceshelp to rally with the rest of the team and to work as a team to get good results."

"It is true that I am experienced I am 35 yeard old,"quipped Toda.

"I can help to mould with the younger players using my experience but I don't want to push my beliefs onto any of the younger players and insist they learn from me.

Selvaraj concluded by saying:"Toda is an Asian, he knows the game well at the higher level and he has produced alot of effort and intensity even in training.Plus we have other Japanese players here with him who will give alot in terms of ball play and that wil suit him very well."

"For me, I strongly feel that he will adapt to the style and the level of intensity into the team." 

DPMM FC kept their Singapore League title hopes alive after a 2-1 win over Woodlands Wellington FC last night.

Though Gantar Djafril put the hosts ahead in the 26th minute, goals from team top-scorer Shahrazen Said, who has netted 13 times this season, and captain Rosmin Khamis gave the visitors all three points at the Woodlands Stadium in Singapore,leaving them four points adrift of leaders and defending champions Tmpines Rovers FC but with a game in hand.

Brunei's only professional club need to end their season ith two must-win games against Hougang FC on Wednesday and Balestier Khalsa on Nov 2 and then hope for a slip up from Tampines when they close heir campaign with a Nov 1 clash against Malaysia Under-23 national team Harimau Muda.

DPMM FC Vjeran Simunic didn't exactly have an easy time preparing for last night's game against Woodlands as 12 of his players were on national duty for the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF)qualifiers in Myanmar, while Brazilian centreback Ricarte dos Santos is out for the rest of the season with a knee injury. 

The Croatian knew that dropped points would see Tampines retain their crown,which is why last night's win was all the sweeter.

"We are proud because now we have made the competition interesting ... Tampines would have been championsif we didn't win," said Simunic after the match.

"I'm very satisfied with the three points as its not easy to mount a comeback.

"We won our last three heading into tonight's game so the three-week break for the AFF qualifiers didn't help us.

"Santos is out but veteran Pg Sallehuddin did well to control the backline ...He's really good for us right now," said Simunic of the 1999 Malaysia Cup winner.Croatain midfielder Ivan Jerkovic missed a fifth minute penalty, which Simunic said affested the team's morale.

"It was the first time in his life he missed and the team were a little down after that."

They fell behind after a counter-attack from the Rams, who were searching their third win of the season.

But Shahrazen who was once again proved why he is held in such high regard by the club's fans after heading home the equaliser after connecting with a Sirol Hj Sahari freekick three minutes from halftime.

Rosmin then put DPMM infront after a pass from Hj Subhi in the 69th minute.Shahrazen's goal pushed him to joint second in the scrong table alongside Geylang's Jozef Kapalan and SAF's Miroslav Karoglan.Home United's Frederic Mendy looks certain to end the season as  top-scorer after finding the back of the net 20 times. 

DPMM FC are potentially one win away from claiming their maiden Singapore LEague title after beating Hougang 3-1 lst nught.

Though they have put themselves in prime position to lift the trophy for the first time, and make it a double after winning the Singapore League Cup in August, they still trail defending champions Tampines Rovers by a point and must hope for a slip up for the Stags when they play their last game against Harimau Muda. 

A Tampines win will mean DPMM will end the season at second, an amazing achievement nonetheless considering the team have not played competitive football in two years and their target at the start of the season was only a Top-5 finish.

DPMM face Balestier Khalsa in their last game of the season next Friday in the club's biggest home games in years, and the team have already said they will be counting on strong support from their fans to spur them on.

Tampines were scheduled to play Harimau Muda on Thursday but it is understood both games will kick-off simultaneously on Friday.

Like last Sunday's 2-1 win over Woodlands, DPMM were trailing before being forced to mount a comeback, Jordan Webb putting in the 25th minute before Patrick Silva made it 2-1 seven minutes from the restart.

Ampuan Nurul Azami, who replaced the suspended Hj Subhi Abdilah, would go on to repay coach Vjeran Simunic's trust in him by getting into the scoresheet on the hour-mark for his first goal of the season.

Speaking to the Brunei Times after the match, captain Rosmin Khamis said he was not going to be happy if he returned to Brunei with anything less than three points.

"We deserved to win," he insisted.

"Everyone gave their best to win the matchand I'd would like to congratulate all of them," added the central midfielder.

Goalkeeper Wardun Yussof praised his teammates fighting spirit after the win, and like Rosmin, felt there could only be one winner on the night.'

"It was not an easy game but our players keep on running and never gave up ...  We deserved to win," said wardun.

Left back Sairol Sahari mirrored Wardun's comments and said he was hoping to see the Hassanal Bolkiah  Stadium filled to capacity next week.

"We played all out tonight,"agreed Sairol.

"We never stopped fighting even though Hougang were leading at first.

"I'm proud of the team and I hope the supporters will come ou in droves to watch us play because they are part of the team as well," he pointed out. 

A brace by Shahrazen Said was not enough to save DPMM FC.

Brunei's only professional club team slipped to a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Aceh United yesterday in the semifinals of the Governor Aceh Trophy in Indonesia.

Mahdi Senegal opened the scoring and gave Aceh Utd the league in the 13th minute.

Shahrazen cancelled out the opening goal after he netted from the spot in the 36th minute.

It remained 1-1 at the break and it was only in the 78th minute that the hosts got back infront through Defri Rizky.

While DPMM were in search of an equaliser,Ismed Sofyan killed off all chances by netting a third for Aceh in the 90th minute.

Shahrazen found the back of the net once again in injury time but it proved too late for the Bruneian side

DPMM FC still have a chance to finish on the podium as they take on Selangor in the third-place play off on Saturday. 

DPMM FC are in fine form ahead of the upcoming Singapore League set to kick-off next month.

Brunei's only professional team are back in full training with the return of the head coach on Monday.

They had their first training session with the coach on Tuesday at their home ground, at the Jerudong Park Mini Stadium.

The regular local players are in good shape and are looking ahead to have a successful season.

Their topriority is to better their finish in last year's edition of the competition where they were runners-up last season.

"We hope to be fully preparedtp to the level we want. After our outing in Aceh, there is still some work to be done," said Rosmin Khamis, the captain of the DPMM FC yesterday.

"The locals have been together for a while now so we have to work on playing alongside the imports," he added.

"It will be competitive and Singapore teams with naturalised players may have an advantage.We are looking forward to the challenge though and we are looking at the possibilites of new things from our new import players as well," continued Rosmin.

Striker Shahrazen Said is hoping that he would be able to keep up his from after finishing as the team's top-scorer in the league with 13 goals to his name.

"We had light training with assistant coach before coach arrived.We need to maintain our fitness and we did our usual runs under the assistant coach," said Shahrazen.

"I hope that I will be able to maintain my scoring form.But the ultimate aim for us this season is to be able to win the S-League. We were close last season and I hope I wil br able to gel quickly with the new imports as well,"he added.

Leftback Sairol Sahri feels that they are ready for the challenge and is looking ahead to improving ahead of the competition.

"It has been so far so good in training ever since returning from Aceh. We took a break until the new year but we weren't exactly relaxing as we know that we need to keep our fitness even without the presence of coach,"said Sairol.

"Now the coach is back we are looking at our usual training and we ever managed to have a friendly against Jerudong yesterday,: he added.

Asked for his expectations for this year, the 29-year old replied: "I hope that we can do better than last season.We are required to maintain our performance but it is going to be tough especially with each team now allowd to have five imports.

"Someof the Singapore teams have got naturalised players which makes them even stronger.None of them will take anything lightly," he added.

One more slot is left to be decided as the team have confirmed four imports so far with the signing of Croatian defender Dino Drpic,Portuguese striker Joao Victor De Carvalho Moreira,Guadeloupean midfielder Stephen Auvray and Brazilian defender Tales Ricarte Dos Santos. 

DPMM FC will be bringing another top striker from Brazil. He is Edison Luiz Dos Santos.Edison won the Maltese League top-scorer award in which he netted 23 goals last season for Hibernians FC.

Edison Luis Dos Santos established himself as one of the deadliest strikers in the Maltese Premier  League last season.The 26-year old only spent one season in the top Maltese league and will be finding his place playing in one of the top clubs in Asia.

Two in-form players on the local scene James Soto Roberts and Dominic Jlateh have been invited for trial by Brunei top outfit DPMM FC.

Soto who is currently with the senior national team of Liberia as they brace themselves for what can be termed a daunting task against a desperate Super Eagles of Nigeria in the second leg, final roundmatch of the Afcon qualifier on October,13, 2012, along with local top flight top-scorer Dominic Jlateh, who stunned the form book by netting in 20 goals for modest club Fatu FC, an unprecented feat in the Liberian top flight, are expected to be in brunei late November for the trial.

According to information on the club's website, the duo are set to join two other players, the veteran Portuguese winger cum midfielder Luiz Boa Morte formerly of English Premiership clubs Arsenal, West Ham and Fulham and the hardworking Nigerian defender Kennedy Chinwo of Dolphins for the trials in Brunei.

Though they are from Brunei, the club, dPMM FC, plays in the top flight of Singapore where they currently lie at the second spot with 42 points in the 13 teams league.With just three matches to go, the club is frantically in the hunt to invite new players as means of strengthening them for the next season.

Though it is reported on the club's website that Boa Morte will eb moving to the club on trial, the veteran recently signed with English side Chesterfield, and what will be the arrangement leading him to the Asian club remains unknown.

But Jlateh, who is the son of ex-Liberian international Aloysius Jlateh of now disbanded Great Bame and the current LPRC Oilers pacey winger James Soto Roberts can take full advantage of such opportunity as in all fairness,Liberian players cannot really attract clubs in the glamorous of leagues due to the country's low rankong, football-wise, as well in the low state of the country's football programme which has continuously made the various national teams virtually lacklustre.

Super-sub Adi Said kept Brunei DPMM in the running for their first ever S-League crown after netting a 91st minute winner to condemn Home Utd to a 3-2 defeat at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium lastnight.

Home Utd took the lead, admittedly, against the run of play in the 14th minute, when a long ball forward from the back was met by Frederic Mendy who, with his back towards goal,looped a header over the advancing Wardun, much to the dismay of the home supporters.

When it comes to match officials, Brunei DPMM FC never seem to get a rub of the green having conceded two dubious penalties in the match against Gomabk Utd, so it perhaps came as no surprise when Abd Malek Bashir awarded the Protectors a penalty on the stroke of half time for an alleged foul on Frederic Mendy inside the box.

Captain Shia Jia Yi stepped up to take the spot kick, sending Wardun the wrong way and finding the bottom right hand to establish a two-goal advantage going into the break.

After losing Tales dos Santos to injury in the first half, Brunei DPMM fans feared the worst when skipper Rosmin Khamis was brought off at half time with a reported fever.

However the introduction of Helmi Zambin chnaged the dynamics of the game, and Brunei DPMM resorted to a Stoke City-esque style of playing, hooting the ball into the box,and hoping for the best.

The best is exactly what happened, as a cross from the right was met by the header of Shahrazen Said, whose effort was deflected high into the air by Masreszwan Masturi, over Lionel Lewis, falling under the bar just in time to cross the line for DPMM's opener in the 49th minute.

Patrick da Silva would find the back of the net just minutes later, after he connected with a Subhi Abdilah cross, nodding the ball goalwards, and with Lionel Lewis rooted to his line, the crowd erupted as the ball found the side-netting for DPMM's equaliser.

As the fourth official indicated seven minutes of injury time, it appeared if both sides were more than happy to settle for a draw and as Adi Said ran onto the pitch after replacing his brother, Shahrazen, in the 89th minute, the 22 year old could surely not have pictured what would happened just moments later.

An Azwan Salleh freekick from the right was sent in with venom, and what appeared to be a straight forward catch, was fumbled by Lionel Lewis, allowing Adi to snatch a shot on goal, which was instinctively blocked by Lewis.

However, the ball fell back to Adi's feet, who made no mistake with his second bite of the apple, rolling the ball through the legs of a Home Utd defender who had stationed himself on the line for what would turn out to be DPMM FC's winner.

A jubilant Vjeran Simunic could not control his emotions after witnessing his side finally got the better of Home Utd, having failed to beat them on three previous occasions in the league.

"Its nice to be the coach of Brunei DPMM FC team.It has made Brunei fans happy after the bitter loss to Indonesia,"exclaimed Simunic.

"Every player was the man of the match for me.At half time I said to my team that we can beat them 10-2, we are the better team. I think Home is no longer a bogey team for DPMM FC.DPMM is now the bogey team for every team in the league."

A deflated Protectors head coach Lee Lim Saeng was seemingly lost for words after Home United's shock defeat, but what he did make clear was that it eas defesive errors that cost his side the match.

"We were leading 2-0, and then one of our defenders got injured, and was out of the defensive line, so we conceded too easily. In the first ahld we did well, but in the second half, we couldn't put our opportunities into the net,"bemoaned Lee.

"What can I do? That is football."

Head coach Vjeran Simunic insists DPMM FC cannot afford a lapse in concentration when they meet Home United tonight at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas at 8.15pm.

I expect my players to play smart and not to lose focus when they play against Home United tomorrow.They're one of the stringest teams in the league and it is always difficult to play against them.But we always trust ourselves that we can always get the three points,"said Simunic.

Having won the Singapore League Cup last August by beating Geylsng as they became the first team to claim the trophy for the second time, the Croatian has set sight on winning the double by winning the S-League title this season.

"We are aining for the double this season.We won the Singapore League Cup in August and we still have chance to win the title.We were dissapointed that we did not have the chance to challenge for the S-League title after winning the Singapore League Cup two years ago because of the the FIFA suspension."

On current form, it is not beyond the realm of possibility that DPMM FC could actually win the league with their league season now back on track after winning their last two matches against Tanjong Pagar and Young Lions.

"I am sure the that the football fans are not happy following the Brunei National team defeat in the friendly match agaianst Indonesia. But I really hope that they will come for the game in full force, filling the stadium cheering DPMM FC."

"It is going to be one of the toughest games in the S-League for us. The referees for the past two games have made tmistakes and horrible decisions against us.We expect a good ferereeing tomorrow," the DPMM FC head coach said.

Tales Ricarte dos Santos is expected to start and featring in DPMM win over Tanjong Pagar last Sunday.Ivan Jerkovic has won the trust of the DPMM supporters after getting the name on the scoresheet in the past two games.Patrick da Silva recent form has significantly improved.Youngster Adi Said,Hendra Azam and Najib Tarif have shown rich promise in DPMM FC.

"Santos is back, he is in good shape now.He played against Tanjong Pagar last week.Sairol and Salleh will also be available for the game tomorrow."The line-up will going to be similar to lastweek's game against Tanjong Pagar. We got strong players on the bench like Adi and Helmi," added Simunic.

At the same time Shahrazen has taken his coring tally to 11 goals in the league while Azwan Salleh has gradually become one of the key players in DPMM title race this year. DPMM FC are now in the league with 39 points and they can move to second place if they beat Home United tonight.

"Today, we took three points against my favourite team, Young Lions.Benjamin Lee.El-Masri,Camara- they are excellent players.Young Lions are an excellent team.I have watched them many times, I have studied how they play; I am very proud today to win," he said.

The Croatian admitted that his side switched off to allowed the Young Lions to score, bu maintained he had faith his players' ability to turn things around.

"When you play against a strong team like Young Lions, you must accept that you wil concede.One time a player does not keep an eye on another player, you will be punished, and Benjamin score.

He continued,"They score, they had some chances .But I think in the last minutes, we dominated.We decided to go for 3 points, and we did that."

Simunic also hailed the efforts of defenders Pg Sallehuddin and Tales dos Santos, who have been soldiering on despite injuries.

"I am very happy for many of my players like Pg Sallehuddin who played after a long absence,(due to) an operation on his knee.I must say 'thank you'to Santos, because the doctor sais to him that he couldn't play for six weeks,but he played today."

He insisted that he was already focusing on his team's next match against Tanjing Pagar, as he brusged off talks about the league title.

"My mind is on tanjing Pagar.I respect them very much."

His counterpart,Robin Chitrakar, thought that his players did well despite the 'disappointment' loss.

"I thought we competed with DPMM very well;you can see from our teamsheet that we are really a young team, but we gave them a reall a good run for their money. I thought we competed well, even though we lost 3-1."

The Young Lions coach blamed the goals conceded on inexperience and lapses on concentration, and also tried to play down the red card shown to Shafiq Ghani.

"He was trying to go for the ball, but he got his timing all wrong." 

Shahrazen Said can end the Singapore League season second in the goal-scoring charts but the striker insists it won't mean a thing unless DPMM FC beat Tampines Rovers FC for the title in tomorrow's season0ender.

The country's only professional club is gearing up for its biggest match in history, facing Balestier Khalsa at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas tomorrow night in a must-win match if they are to lift the S-League trophy for the first time.

Defending champions and league leaders Tampines take on Harimau Muda at the Jalan Besar Stadium in the night's other game, and a slip-up from the Stags - combined with a DPMM win - will see the S-League trophy travel across the South China Sea.

Shahrazen is currently third with 13 goals, with Geylang's Jozef Kaplan and Miroslav Karoglan both on 14 and Home Utd'd Frederic Mendy leading the table with 20.

Mendy has the chance to add to his tally when Home take on the Young Lions tonight in the final game for the both sides.Kaplan and Karoglan also face off tonight in the last match of the season for both Geylang and SAF, where goals from either player will make Shahrazen's task all the more harder.

DPMM FC's striker though, stressed that he has other matters on his mind.

"I'm not really thinking about it," said Shahrazen last week when asked about what he felt about his goal-tally.

"The most important thing is that we beat Balestier and Tampines drop points...For me anything more than that is just good luck.

"I'm just doing my job as a striker ...If I have the chance to score, I take it.

"Finishing second in the table is just a bonus for me.

"I never expected to score 13 goals...If you had asked me at the start of the season,I didn't even think I would score 10.

"I scored nine goals in the last time we were in the S-League, and two of them were in the Singapore Cup," added Shahrazen

Though the 26 year old only netted once during DPMM FC'srun to the Singapore League crown in August, he couldn't have picked a better time than the final against Geylang, scoring the 36th minute opener before Azwan Salleh's 76th minute free-kick won the game.

The striker in the midst of a drought leading up to the August 11 final against Geylang, his last goal coming on May 5 when he bagged a brace in the 5-1 win against Hougang.

He hasn't had any problems findong the back of the net since then though, going on to score five goals in the team's seven league games leading up for tomorrow's title-decider.

Though he might lack the speed which was so vital to his rivh vein in form during the 2006/7MSL campaign, the striker remains just as clinical in front of goal and his ability to carve out space continues to mark him out as DPMM FC's most potent threat. 

DPMM FC will be looking for their first win in three league games when they take on the Young Lions tonight.

Currently third in the league with 33 points, DPMM FC trail leaders and defending champions Tampines Rovers by six points and are four points behind second-placed Albirex Niigata.

Having led the -League for several weeks during the first round, their second round form has not been as agreeable - they have taken only four out of possible 18 points since the second round kicked off on June 15.

With the season slowly drawing to a close - there are only 6 matches left - Vjeran Simunic knows his men will have to maintain their focus over the next two months, especially with Harimau Muda, Home Utd and Balestier Khalsa all breathing down their necks.

"We want to take it game by game and hope for the best," said the DPMM FC coach.

"The Young Lions are a strong side with four good imports - defender Sirina Camara, left winger Sherif El-Masri, right winger Benjamin Kristofferson Lee and striker Jonathan Toto.

"The games between us have always been tough.They respect us like the national team and we feel the same way about them," added the Croatian.

The mutual respect is only natural.

After all, both camps will still remember that DPMM FC started out their debut league campaign in 2009 with a gritty 1-1 draw against the Young Lions- striker Abu Bakar Mahari the hero after coming up with a last minute equaliser.

The last time the two teams also provided more dying-minute drama, with Azwan Salleh's stunning long range injury time free-kick earning 1-0 win at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium in berakas in april.

The midfielder, however, will not feature tonight after aggravating a knee injury during the 1-1 stalemate with Gombak on Aug 31.

"Azwan is a key player," admitted Simunic, who will field Helmi Zambin in his place.

"Salleh and Tales Ricarte were injured but they might be able to play.I'll have to see on the day.

"Captain Rosmin Khamis is also with us but he has a knock and hasn't trained.

"They are all recovering but they all want to play," he added.

Simunic can take some heart in the fact that Ghanaian striker Osman Bashiru is back from suspension and midfielders Md Najib Tarif and Md Hendra Azam have been released by the national team. who are currently in Malaysia for a series of friendlies ahead of next month's ASEAN Football Federation _AFF) Suzuki Cup qualifiers in Myanmar. 

Injury to Brazilian centre-back Tales Ricarte dos Santos and suspended Ghanaian striker Osman Basiru will make for a changed starting-lineup when DPMM FC take on Gombak United tonight.

Add in the fact that veteran defender Pg Sallehuddin is still nursing a knock, and it would seem that Vjeran Simunic has his hands tied.

Not so.

I will start midfielder Hendra Azam and Adi Said, and put Rosmin Khamis as libero,"said the DPMM FC coach yesterday.

"It'll be a big test for the local players and I am sure they can do it.

"We put Helmi Zambin and Adi in the second half against Harimau Muda and they changed the game.We attacked Muda, pushed Mudaand were excellent from the 45th minute to 87th minute," he pointed out.

Though a disjointed DPMM FC manage to carve chances when they met the Under-23 team on Sunday, their failure to put them away ultimately cost them and they lost 2-1 in a 87th minute scramble.

Dos Santos' substitution for what looked to be a knee injury seven minutes earlier played a povotal part in the goal, as both coaches admitted after the match.

Simunic doesn't think the pair of home losses have affected the player confidence.

With the team third in the league and seven points adrift of Tampines Rovers, who beat Home United 2-0 last night, there is still time to make a charge in the table with seven games left in the season and DPMM enjoying a game in hand over their rivals.

"We won the Singapore Cup recently and had a break for Hari Raya...so it was not the best time for us to meet Harimau Muda," said the Croatian.

"The players still feel they can challenge the top teams,but we need a win to get back on our way."

"Gombak are a tough team to play and they have experienced players in their mid to late 20's, sais Simunic, who picked out Singaporean defender Gabriel Aikhena, and winger Mustaqim Manzur as Gombak's biggest threats.

Though the Gombak hot seat is the first in the league for K.Balagumaran, the coach is no stranger to the S-League having spent the past year ahead of youth development at Tampines.

"I've worked with many players at the youth level so I know these players and they know my football philidophy," he said yesterday.

"Ilike to build from the back, keep possession, and I don't encourage long balls.Our only problem is don't have any good finisher, a goal poacher.

"We've been playing attractive football but without results," noted Balagumaran, whose team sits 10th.

Recalling the 3-0 loss the last time the two teams met, the coach also highlighted a solid defense will be just as important as good finishing.And though he was aware of DPMM FC's recent home slump, Balagumaran felt that three in a row might be too much to ask. 

Outclasses and outplayed, DPMM FC Fell to their second straight home defeat last night when they lost 2-1 to a slick and suave Harimau Muda side.

The game marked DPMM FC's first match since they captured the Singapore League Cup for the second time on August 11 but it was the Malaysian Under-23s who were riding a wave of confidence, dominating their hosts with their captivating one-touch passing and intelligent off-the-ball movement.

Though the game was dubbed DPMM FC's "Hari Raya Open House", their midfield simply failed to show up and entertain their guests at the hassanal Bolkiah Stadium, and unable to keep possession or string any numbers of passes together, equally nept at moving the ball forward or linking up on the offense when it mattered the most.

Denied time and space, DPMM FC's poor marking and positioning also made it an uncharacteristic performance from brunei's only professional side - who at least can be lucky that they have Friday's Gombak game on friday to make amends for their mistakes.

With their main rivalsall dropping points last week, DPMM FC who remain third on the table-will be gutted to have been unble to capitalise on their opponents slip-up.

The impressive Wan Zack haikal gave the visitors a deserved 26th minute lead after shooting from a tight angle and beating Wardun at his near post, and though Shahrazen would even the scored seconds after the restart when latching onto an Ivan Jerkovic pass, DPMM were unable to sustain the kind of attacking momentum they are capable of.

Towering centre back Tales Ricarte dos Santos was forced to leave the game in the 80th minute after an injury and his presence ws sorely missed when Wan Zaharulnizam powered home a 87th minute winner after some static defending inside  the box. 

"We deserved a draw with the chances we created," claimed DPMM FC coach,Vjeran Simunic.

"Maybe it was because of Hari Raya ... Open houses ... But Harimau Muda are an excellent team.They were fresh, they were hungry.They can be champions," noted the Croatian grimly.

His counterpart was nderstandably happier.

"We lost our last two games so its good to have three points back," said Ong Kim Swee.

"We showed our calibre today despite not having some key players.I'd win the league if I had all my players fit," said the coach, who agreed that dos Santos' injury contributed to the win.

Setting the tone for the rest of the tie, Wardun has to coome off his line to clear a threat from D.Saarvindran after just a minute.

Wan Zaharulnizam hit the side-netting in the seventh minute and DPMM's Azwan Salleh's free-kick was easily saved by Izham Tarmizi, the goalkeeper effectively dealing with any crosses and corners throughout the game.

Though the hosts enjoyed a spell of pressure after the 15-minute mark, a throughball to Wan Zaclk who was creating all sorts of trouble on the right flank - saw the unmarked midfielder rifle home a shot pass Wardun.

Simunic had seen enough and threw on Shahrazen's brother Adi for Osmanb Basiru - who was already on a yellow card.

DPMM FC skipper Rosmin Khamis shot straight at Izham in the 43rd minute and dos Santos's header which hit the side netting tow minutes later was all the DPMM fans had to savour at first half highlights.

They were still finding the sits when Shahrazen netted straight after the kick-off,Jerkovic laying off a long-ball to the striker for his team-leading ninth goal of the season.

Making his home debut, striker Patrick da Silva's best chance came off a 51st minute header from an Adi cross - though the crows was more animated when Shahrazen produced a diving save from Izham after stealing the ball off Wan zack pulling the trigger theten minutes later.

More slick passing opened space for substitute Thamil Arasu in the 65th minute, and though his shot was wide off the left post, it proved that Harimau Muda could strike anytime.

Hj Subhi was through on gaol in the 71st minute but took one touch too many, with da Silva shooting straight at izham six minutes later.

They were made to pay when Wan Zack beat his marker on the right, put in a cross which was made by Sahul Azwari, who then moved along to Wan Zaharulnizam- who would not miss from hardly two yards out, with the referee dismissing accusations of off-side.

Though da Silva had a 89th minute free-kick which Izham saved at the top-right corner, and Shahrazen came close to scoring from inside the box but had his shot stopped before colliding with the glovesman, a draw would have been too big a Hari Raya gift to ask. 

Vjeran Simunic knows that a win against Harimau Muda at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium tonight will see DPMM FC close the gap on the S-League leaders Albirex Niigata to just two points with only seven games left to play.

"If we win this game, it is going to be a big motivation for us to win the league.Albirex Niigata were held to a goaless draw by Home United.Tampines were held to a 1-1 draw.This is good news for us but we need to win against Harimau Muda,"said the DPMM FC coach.

"The players are in full confidence after winning the Singapore League Cup.They are hungry for more football and we have made some preparations before the game.This is a very big game and it is going to be a very big test for usand I am expecting twenty-thousand people coming for the game tomorrow,"said Simunic.

"Harimau Muda is one of the strongest team in the league. They are hungry to play and it is going to be tough.All their players are coming back from injuries and they will have their full squad now," added the Croatian.

With their last win coming all the way back on July 13th against Tanjong Pagar,Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee is keen to get a win but he is well aware of the threats his opponents can pose.

"We are not settling for a draw and I am sure DPMM FC will go out to win.But I know it won't be easy for us and more over it is always difficult to play in Brunei especially with their supporters behind them.They just won the Singapore League Cup recently and I am sure the players are highly motivated now,"he said.

"I just got all my players back from Hari Raya celebrations and we only had few days of training.I hope the players will be able to maintain their focus, discipline and be positive in the game," he added. 

It was as if football had never left Brunei.

Despite Brunei serving a two year ban by FIFA from international football, DPMM FC find themselves neck and neck with Tampines Rovers in the race for the S-LEague title.

The Football Association Brunei Darusslam was deregistered from the Registrar of Societies in November,2008 for failing to submit its activity and financial reports as requested. 

It was then suspended by FIFA for government interference during its executive commitee meeting in September,2009.

The ban was lifted on May,30th 2011 thanks to the normalisation committee, which was chaird by HRH Prince Hj Sufri, who is now the Honourary President of the new Association,National Football association of Brunei Darussalam.

Defending champions Tampines currently lead the Bruneian side by one point with both teams have a fianl game to play.

Both teams will take to the field on Friday with DPMM taking on Balestier Khalsa while the Stage play Harimau Muda.

A win alone will ot be enough for DPMM to hoist the trophy, they will be praying for Tampines to slip-up.

A Tampines win will mean DPMM end the season at second, an impressive feat for a squad that have been missing from professional football in two years.

But DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic has set eyes on victory in their final match of the season at home.

"In the last 23 games, we were never relaxed.We played 200% in every game," said Simunic.

He attributed Wednesday's 3-1 win over Hougang as one of the most crucial.

"The win makes us concentrate more ans we must not lose our confidence," said the head coach.

"Hougang was a wonderful team...we were under a lot of pressure but we showed why we are one of the best teams in the region,"he said.

But the coach knows the fate of his team lies in the hands of under-powered Harimau Muda, currentl missing a number of players called up for national duty.

"Tampines have really god players and if harimau Muda does not play their full team... the match between these 2 clubs wil be a 50-50," said Simunic.

The Croatian added that even if they were to finish the season as runner-ups, it would be a fantastic result for the team whose target was to secire a Top-5 finsih.

Simunic also used the opportunity to call out all Bruneian fans to provide their full support for the club come Friday.

"For this last game, I expect at least 30,000 or more people to come and support the team," he said. 

Fulfilling his pledge to help DPMM FC relieve their past glory, Vjeran Simunic returned to brunei yesterday with a profound sense of accomplishment knowing that he has kept his word.

Simunic, who is in his second spell at the club, cemented his reputation as DPMM FC's greatest coach after overseeing their 2-0 win over Geylang United in the S-LEague Cup final on Saturday as they became the first team to claim the trophy for the second time. 

If the 2009mSingapore League Cup victory was the highlight of his first stint at the club, their sunsequent from the S-League months later as a result of FIFA's now-lifted suspension on the Sultanate was certainly the lowest point of his 17 months in charge.

The Croatian was forced to return home for another coaching job after DPMM's league adventure came to a premature halt in 2009, going on to Vietnam a year later. 

It was during a holiday back in Brunei last July that he insisted the team could still challenge for trophies, and now he has proved himself right.

"Nobody in the world can can do what we have done," announced the effervescent Simunic afrer leading the team out at the Brunei International Airport's arrival hall.

"We haven't been playing for three years and go back into the S-League...It is a trong league with many foreign players,sometimes seven or eight per team.

"But we have always played with a lot of Bruneiansso this win is something that the whole country can be proud of.We have fantastic talent.

"I promised when I first came back from Vietnam we would bring glory to the team once again!Like I said then my aim was to bring the team back to the level that we were in 2009

"I'm happy I was able to deliver on my promise of one trophy this season  ... The players, the fans, the management...We all deserve this.

"The League Cup is like a small S-League, and for me,I value this trophy just like the S-League.Now we'll hoping to win that too.

"Iy wasn't easy but we can see now that all our sacrifices over the oast 11 months have paid off.

"I want to thank the Crown Prince and the management for trusting in us and the coaching staff," he added.

Noy only as he promised the club-and himself - that he would win another trophy, the veteran coach has made another vow, this one to his players.

"Never in my whole life have I been without a moustache and I promised the players I would shave it off if we won the League Cup, so I'm going to do it later," he smiled. 

"A moustache ... I can grow it back in a month .But a trophy ...

"What happens if we win the S-League? I might go bald!" he laughed. 

Compared to the response the tam got upon their return in 2009, yesterday's was decidedly quiet - with the welcoming crowd made up of mostly family members and few curious onlookers. 

But in an airport reverbing with the sounds of hadrahs, Simunic didn't mind that the mob greeting him was a lot less crazier than three years ago.

With their S-LEague season back on track after a slow start to the second round - they dropped from first to third after losing all three opening games and scoring only one goal- Simunic believes their Singapore LEague Cup success is just the remedy the club needs to regain their mojo.

"The first time is always the best," he said when asked what he though of the relatively muted reception when compared in 2009.

"Now we have a better atmosphere for the S-LEague ... and I expect to see 100,000 people at our next home game," he grinned.

The Harimau Muda tie promises to be a must-watch considering the physical encounter which played out the only time they met on March,22nd.The 1-1 draw was the first time that the Malaysian surrendered their clean sheet in the league but was more remembered for Simunic being sent to the stands in the dying minutes.

But all thoughts of that game were forgotten yesterday, with the Singapore LEague Cup win the only thing on his mind.

It has been a long road to the final, and though he has had to make numerous sacrificesas the coach of the country's most notable club, the Croatian insists it has been worth it.

"You know, yesterday(Saturday) was my mother's 87th birthday, and there was a big party. Everyone was there except for me," he sighed.

"She called me and told me to make sure to give her something to remember.

"I still haven't seen my new-born grandchild...But those are the kind of sacrifices I have to make in this job. The players trust me,and for me, that means more than money." 

As Ivan Jerkovic brace inspired DPMM FC shift to second in the S-League after a 3-0 win over Tanjong Pagar FC last night.

The team's top-scorer Shahrazen Said netted his 11th goal of the season in the 65th minute at the Queenstown Stadium before the Croatian netted a quick-fire brace in the 79th and 82nd minute.

Trailing league leaders and defending champions Tampines Rovers - who were held against Gombak on Saturday night - by seven points, the title is still mathematically possible for the League Cup champions- who have four more games left to play.

The Croatian felt his team's training has been disrupted by the release of 12 players for the national team for the next month's ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki cup qualifiers in Myanmar, making the win even more sweeter.

"I think it is one of the hardest game in six months," insisted Simunic.

"Tanjong Pagar played a fantastic game, just like the one in Brunei.

"They were very motivated and very good.They gave 200% but we gave 300%.

"It was very big fight and I'm very proud of the team.

"We won our last two games so now we're in good form ahead of our next game against Home Unites," he added.

DPMM FC face Home Utd on Sunday - the last league match until the competition takes a break for the ASEAN Football Federation(AFF)Suzuki cup qualifiers in Myanmar. 

DPMM FC recorded a clinical 2-0 win over geylang United on Saturday to claim their second Singapore League Cup title.

In a game the Eagles dominated but failed to convert their chances, the Bruneian outfit outfit took the lead in the 36th minute when Shahrazen Said glanced a perfect header into the far corner, before Azwan Salleh wrapped up the win 14 minutes from time with a exquisite freekick.

The match also marked an unfortunate end to ammagical run from Geylang,  the Great eastern YEO's league's bottom side, who alsohad several refereeing decisions go against them.

Having seen his side continue their stunning run in the competition with a 2-0 win over champions Tampines Rovers on wednesday, Eagles coach V.Kanan made just one change to his starting X1 by bringing South Korean Mun Seung-Man for Nurhazwan Norasikin.

However, it was Geylang who created the first half-chance in the tenth minute when a missed header by Tales dos Santos allowed Jozef Kaplan to sneak in behind the defence, nut his ball back into the box was just beyond the reach of Mun and Michael King.

Three minutes later, it was DPMM's turn to threaten when Patrick found space inside the box after being picked out by a long ball over the top, but Ridhuan Barudin stood tall and kept out the Brazilian's effort from a tight angle. 

Despite being ten places behind their opponents in the league, the Eagles were actually looking the more dangerous of the two sides and DPMM keeper Wardun had to make a flying save in the 23rd minute after King whipped in a dangerous freekick that was glanced towards his own goal by Rosmin Kamis.

Five minutes later King looked to have broken the offside trap after being sent clear by a brilliant through-ball from Kaplan, only to be halted by the linesman's flag, although replays proved otherwise.

Another call then went against Geylang on the half-hour mark when referee Sukhbir /singh waved play on after Dos Santos claterred into the back os Shah Hirul insode the box, and they had even more reason to feel aggrieved as DPMM edged ahead after 6 minutes after.

Picking up possession just outside the area, Shahrazen played a neat ball out to the left to Azwan before making his way up to the six-yard box, when he met a resultant cross with a terrific glancing header that nestled inside the far corner.

A minute before the break,Kaplan wasted an excellent chance to equalise when he failed to keep his effort on target after Stefan Milojevic broke down the left and swung in a deep ball to the far post, before the Eagles had a benalty turned down three minutes into the second half after Mun Seungman fell under a dos Dantos challenge, and instead picked up a yellow card for his efforts.

By now DPMM were to deal with tremendous pressure from their opponents and they had the woodwork to thank for keeping their lead intact in the 52nd minute when Milojevic cut in from the right and curled a blime left-footed effort back off the cross-bar.

The French forward who had been impressive since moving to the Bedok stadium in mid-season, then tried his luck again in the 74th minute- this time from 26 yards= and was unlucky to see another excellent attempt just sail over the far corner.

Two minutes later,DPMM all but killed the contest when, against the runof play, they earned a freekick on the right flank,when Azwan went straight for goal and proceeded to send in a swerving shot that dipped just under the crossbar and in off the fsr post.

To geylang's credit, they refused to give in and both Kaplan and King cam close to pulling one back; he former failing to prod home a left-wing cross from eight yards, before the latter skied an attempt in a one-on-one situation with Wardun.

But despie their valiant efforts, there was no fairy tale ending for the eagles as it was the DPMM players who raised their hands triumphantly in the air as the final whistle went. 

Vjeran Simunic's men are now just one win away from being crowned champions of the Singapore League Cup.

The Bruneian side eliminated familiar foes Singapore Armed Forces (SAF)FC 2-0 in an epic semi-final battle lastnight at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

DPMM FC finally avenged their loss against the warriors after the latter handed DPMM FC their first home loss of the season at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

"It was a revenge. It feels very good to win against one of the top teams in Singapore.We lost to SAF twice before and we learnt from our mistakes and we played very well in the game," said Simunic.

"We are very happy with the winand this is a big result for Brunei Football.We are very happy to win for the big boss, the Crown Princeand for the football fans in the country," added the head coach.

"All of the playersare the men of the match tonight.All the playersfrom goalkeeper Wardun Yussof, at the goalpost to Osman Bashiru upfront, were fantastic tonight.They were excellent and they worked very hard."

DPMM FC started brightly when brazilian Tales dos Santos opened the scoring after connecting on a corner-kick from Azwan Salleh in the 10th minute.

SAFFC were doing much of the defending in the second half with DPMM holding on to the ball for much of the time but they were unable to create many clear-cut chances as the warriors did a great job of keeping the ball away from their goal.

The game was heading for a nervous final 10 minutes until the Said brothers worked their magic.

Shahrazen Said dribbled past two defenders just outside the box before sending the ball across for his younger brother Adi said who calmly slot the ball past goalie Sharil Jantan to seal the win in the 79th minute.

DPMM FC will face either Tampines or Geylang Utd in the final on Saturday, with the two teams facing off in the second semi-final at the Jalan Besar Stadium today. 

The former Junior international is set for trials with a club in Asia after so many years in the Nigerian League.

Former U-20 star Kennedy Chimezie Chinwo will undergo trials with Singapore Premier League side,DPMM in the coming days, an agent of the Nigerian has revealed.

Chinwo presently plays for Dolphins of Port Harcourt in the Nigerian Premier League but would become  a player of the Brunei club if he impresses during the test games that would be arranged for him.

The representative of the player, Hasan Egilmez told Goal.com that with the experience and quality possessed by Chinwo, he should not have any problem convincing DPMM officials of his readiness to be offered a contract.

He added that the stint Chinwo had at a time in Moldova has also given him an edge even before lacing his boots for the club.

"I am delighted to announce to you that Kennedy Chinwo will be going to Brunei to have a trial with DPMM a club in the Premier League division."

I don't have any doubt in my mind that Chinwo would convince  DPMM officials with his experience and quality having played in the Moldovan league," Egilmez, who is a Turkish German agent said.

Chinwo will be the second high profile Nigerian being linked with a move to DPMM after NPL highest goal scorr for 2011/2012 season, Sibi Gwar recently declared interest in a switch to the top ASEAN nation's club.

Former Fulham and West Ham player,Luis Boa Morte has agreed with the conditions offered and ready to come for tests in November.  

The 2013 Great Eastern-YEO's S-League campaign will see the introduction of several new features, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) have confirmed.

In a press conference at the association's headquarters at the Jalan Besar Stadium,S-League CEO Lim Chin revealed Singapore's topflight will only be contested by 12 teams next season, after Gombak Utd, who finished ninth this year, confirmed they will be pulling out for at least a year due to financial worries.

The teams will play one another one a home-and-away basis, as they did this year, but following those 22 matches,the table will be split into half, where the top six and bottom six will then play each another once more to decide the final standings.

This has raised the possibility of the seventh-placed team ending the two-and-a-half rounds of fixtures with more points than the sixth-placed team, but still be consigned to a bottom-half finish.

S-League clubs will now be allowed to sign five foreign players, including a "star player" similar to the marquee player rule that exists in the Major League Soccer in the United States, as well as Australia's Hyundai A-League.

In addition, the S-League have declared they will be providing clubs who manage a famous name as their "star player" with financial support in terms of wages.

The beep test, the league's mandatory fitness test that all outfield players were required to pass,has now been replaced by a 2.4 km run. All players will need to pass the test to be eligible to play, although goalkeepers will have a different passing mark.

Finally, the FAS did announce the prize money for the 2-13 season has been raised. This year's champions Tampines Rovers picked up S$150,000 but their successors next year will stand to bag a S$250,000 paycheck. 

It has been three long years but Brunei's only professional club is once again back in the final of the Singapore League Cup.

DPMM FC, champions in 2009's edition of the tournament, will take to the field againsy Geylang United for the crown at 8.45pm on Saturday at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

Geylang United defeated Tampines Rovers 2-0 in their semi-final last night.

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic said that his players sre keeping a cool head ahead of their biggest match this year.

"The players are in a relaxed mood ahead of the final. They have been fantastic in their last two matches against SAFFC and Home United," said the coach.

"All players should be available for the final match except for Pg Salleh.We are not sure with the condition with Osman, we hope he can make it into the game,"he added.

The 23-year old Ghanain striker was stretched off and replaced by Helmi zambin in the game against SAFFC, following a challenge for a high ball with Daniel Bennett.

Facing Geylang United for the first time since their 3-1 victory last month, Simunic said he was encouraged by the recent form of his team, but was, at the same time, aware by the threat posed by Geylang.

"Defeating SAF was not easy, they are a very good team ,and now we are looking forward to the final.We beat Home Utd and we beat SAFFC and it was a good preparation ahead of the final," said Simunic.

"Geylang is a very different team now, they have new import players from Argentina and have a very young goalkeeper. It will be a very different game for us and it is going to be difficult.

" We will give evrything to win the game and hope the fans will come down to Singapore to support our team in the final," he added.

DPMM FC striker Shahrazen Said meanwhile confessed that he had hoped to play Tampines Rovers in the final.

"We played Geylang before and they were very difficult to play against.They have a lot of good young players," said Shahrazen.

"People in Singapore are expecting Tampines to be in the final because of their reputation,profiles and all that...but it is not as simple as they think.

"Geylang's style of play are different from Tampines and in my opinion, they are more difficult to play against. But we are ready for this gameand the players are in a very good spirit after the win against SAFFC,"he added. 

DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic was delighted after progressing to the semi-finals of the Singapore League Cup with a penalty shootut win over Home Utd on Saturday.

Indra Sahdan Daud gave Home the lead in the 48th minute but Brazilian defender Tales dos Santos equalised for the visitors in the 90th minute, and with no further goals in extra-time, the match then went to penalties.

And with the score 3-2 in DPMM's favour after misses by Home duo Kenji arai and Indra, Shahrazen stepped up and wrongfooted Lionel Lewis to send the Bruneian outfit through to a semi-final clash with SAFFC next Tuesday.

Speaking after the game, Simunic admitted e was pleased with his side's progress to the last four, especially given the opposition they were up against.

"I'm very happy we have qualified to the semifinals," the Croat said. "Especially becuase Home are a top team in terms of quality and personalities."

"We respect Home very much- Before tonight, we have played them 4 times and lost 4 times."

Being a former goalkeeper,Simunic was able to appreciate the saves Wardun Yussofmade to deny Arai and Indra in the shoot-out.

"I'm very happy with Wardun," he added. "e made some excellent saves."

And he admitted winning on penalties is always going to be down on luck, the DPMM boss insists they were a bit of good fortune.

"O course we were lucky today [Saturday]but before this, we've been very unlucky," simunic continued.

"In our last five games, we had no luck but today [Saturday] it favoured us.I felt the draw was a fair result and the penalty shootout is always going to be a a gamble.

Despite the dissapointment of bowing out of the competition they were expected to challenge for,Home United coach Lee Lim-saeng insisted he was not unhappy with the result or the performance of his players.

"I really appreciate the effortand passion all the players showed," the ex-Korea Republic international said.

"We had lots of chances bit could only score one.DPMM had only two chances but scored - this is football.

"Every player did their best and I want to thank them for their efforts.We just have to accept the result."

While the Protectors once again failed to record a clean sheet, the backline did show signs of improvement and Lee revealed the presence of goalkeeper Lionel Lewis, who was struggled with an ankle injury recently, was vital.

"Lionel came in and he really helped the defensive line," he added. "He is crucial in this aspect."

"The defence is slowly getting better but Lionel is definitely important for our organisation at the back."

DPMM FC are looking to relieve the glory from three years ago at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

They wlll be going back to the very sane venue to take on Geylang United in the final of the Singapore Cup today.

Brunei's only professional club became the first foreign side to lift the trophy of the competition back in 2009.

 Hougang United won it last year for the Singapore team.

This year DPMM FC defeated familiar foes SAFFC 2-0 in their semifianal encounter on Tuesday while Geylang booked their berth after a 2-0 victory over Tampines Rovers a day after.

Despite Geylang United being at the basement of the 13-team table of the league,DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic believes that the game can go either way.

"It will be a 50-50 matchup but it is a good opportunity for us to win," said Simunic in an interview yesterday.

"They(Geylang)are at the bottom of the table but this is a different competition.They showed that they could beat the top teams.They have scored four in a row and scored eight goals," he added.

Ghanaian striker Osman Bashiru is expected to lace up for the final despite being stretchered offin the semi-finals.

"Osman is alright to play. He may not be 100 per cent but he has a big desire to be on the field. We will let him play and hopefully he will able to do well," said Simunic.

"We need him in a big game.But we will be missing Pg Sallehuddin after he picked up an injury in the quarter finals,"he added.

The Croatian also highlighted how both teams deserve to be in the final during a pre-match conference yesterday in Singapore.

"I think both teams deserve this moment to be in the final especially Geylang after four victories in a row.Even ourselves deserve to be in the final after we overplayed teams like Home and SAF," said Simunic.

"I think the final will be a very tough game and I hope that fans and people will enjoy the game. Gylang are a top-five team in the S-League.At the moment thay have changed lots of players and are now a nice team," he added.

"We must respect a team who won four games in 14 days and only conceded one goal.It is not easy to beat Balestier,Gombak,Albirex and tampnes all in a row," continued the Croatian.

Simunis also pointed out that it was his desire to play against Tampines instead of the in-form Geylang side, who have proven to be the best team in the competition thus far

The momentum is with the Eagles who haven't had the need to play into extra time nor go into penalties.

Eagles haed coach Kanan Vedhamuthu felt that the hard work is paying off since he took over the club in March.

"When I took over, we sstarted everything again,We worked very hard for the five months and all the hard work put in has paid off in League Cup," siad Kanan.

"This will be special for us because we are not doing well in the league.This is the only cup give some pride for the club,"he added.

"Geylang is one of the top club in the league.Being at the bottom of the table is not good.We want to do well in the Cup and we want to win tomorrow,"concluded Kanan.

The final kicks off at 8.45pm. 

DPMM FC slumped to their third straight league loss when they fell 2-0 to Albirex Niigata last night, with the tides definitely having turned for the Bruneians after leading the table for most of the cmapaign.

A brac from Yasuhiro Yamakoshi, who scored in the 33rd minute and 85th minute at the Jurong East Stadium, was enough to put the Japanese side to the top of the table-where they displace defending champions Tampines Rovers with their fifth win in a row.

Combined with Home Utd's 7-3 win against Geylang in last night other tie, the result means DPMM have now slipped to fourth with their fourth loss in the league.

The slump - which has concided with the departure of Brazilian striker Rodrigo Gral late May -is all the more worrying considering they have only scored a goal in their last four games.

Teh recent run of form has been the worst Jjeran Simunic has seen his men go through during his two spells in charge of the club,and speaking after last night's loss, the Croatian was noticeably dejected.

"This is what we've been afraid of since this is tough schedule," said the coach referring to the past few games that the side has been forced to play against the traditional powerhouses of Singapore football.

"I expected a game like this.Now Albirex is on top and they can be the new champions.

"Captain rosmin Khamis was close to scoring an equaliser in the second half but the goalkeeper pulled off a fantastic save.It could have been  a draw bit we conceeded a second goal and when you loss 2-0 you can't say much.

"The only mistake we did in the first half ...it led to the goal.

"Wepushed like usual and attacked them in the second ...held them inside their box.But they went on a counter-attack and scored the second," he explained.

The match aslso marked the debut of brazilain striker Patrick da Silva who was signed on the S-League transfer deadline.

"I think he didn't play that bad but he needs more time to adapt," said Simunic.

They face geylang Utd next on Saturday, knowing full and well the team will still be reeling after lasy night's loss to Home Utd- who had French striker Frederic Mendy to thank after he scored a six-minute second half hat-trick. 

While DPMM FC's 2-0 loss to SAF FC hasn't exactly derailed their Singapore League Cup title hopes, last night's result has handed them tougher road to the final.

Champions in 2009 Brunei's only professional club have now lost their last two encounters against the eight time S-League Champions- though the first time the two teams met in February, DPMM FC came out 2-1 on top.

It was a different story when they met in the League cup though, Fazrul Nawaz giving the hosts a 29th minute lead at the Yishun and alif Shafaein's 90th minute striker securing the win.

Despite the significance of the match - DPMM beat SAF to clinch the 2009 edition on penalties, and more recently SAF handed DPMM their first home loss of the season-DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic felt the match had little bearing considering both teams had already qualified in the last eight.

Brunei's only professional club will now meet Home Utd in Saturday's quarter-finals after they beat Hougang 2-0 in last night's other match. 

Despite the history surrounding the tie, Vjeran Simunic insists DPMM aren't feeling the pressure ahead of their Singapore League clash against SAF FC tonight.

DPMM FC beat SAF 4-3 on penalties to lift the League Cup back in 2009, the victory- which was the first by any foreign team in the competition- their most memorable trophy to date. 

It is the Warriors who have been enjoying the bragging rights as of late though their 2-1 won over DPMM  on June 23 handing the hosts their first home loss of the season at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

But with Sunday's 1-0 win over fellow Group rivals Tanjong Pagar sealing their slot in the quarter-finals-where they will be joined by SAF who beat the same opponents 3-0 - Simunic doesn't feel tonight's match at the Yishun Stadium is worth fretting about.

"This game isn't going to decide which teams go through to the quarters, it will only decide which team is first and second," said the DPMM FC coach yesterday.

"But we ares till going to put a strong team out...and we still want to do our best," insisted the Croatian.

Whoever wins tonight will take on Group C's runners-up, either Home or Hougang- the two teams facing each other tonight as well.

The most successful team in Singapore football, eight team S-League champions,SAF have turned the corner after a slow start to the season's campaign, with Simunic admitting as much.

"As we saw against SAF, they are a much better than in the first round," he noted.

"But we will play a good game, a strong game," insisted the bench-boss.

Winning the midfield battle will be the key tonight, especially considering how DPMM FC were outclassed in the centre of the park during the 2-1 loss.

The team never really got their passing game going, and chances for strikers were few and far between-  the only bright note being Adi Said's first goal of the club.

Opting for long balls against SAF, it was a tactic which simply didn't work against an organised backline marshalled by Singapore international Daniel Bennett and Marin Vidosevic - who produced an impressive performance on his debut.

Last season's S-League top-scorer with 33 goals, Mislav Karoglan will also be one to watch out for tonight.

The quarter-finals on Saturday will be contested in a straight knock-out format, with all four ties set to be played on the same day. 

DPMM FC can't afford to lose tonight's S-League game against Hougang United if they are to stay in contention for their first league title.

The club trials defending champions Tampines Rovers by four points but have a game in hand and have top hope the Stags don't collect maximum points in their last game of the season against Harimau Muda next Thursday.

DPMM FC, the reigning League Cup champions, close out their campaign against Balestier Khalsa next Friday, but Simunic is not thinking that far ahead.

"This is one of our biggest games of the season for us," said the DPMM FC coach ahead of tonight's tie at the Hougang Stadium.

"I am very satisfied and proud that we are involved in the battle of the top spot ... We are the only club that can dethrone Tampines now.

"We need to win or draw/If we lose we cannnot be champions.

"If we win, we finish second.Even if we don't, we are sure to finish fourth - which is better than our target of a Top-5 finish at the start of the season," said the CRoatian.

Apart from Brazilian centreback Tales Ricarte dos Santos who is out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, midfielder Hj Subhi Abdilah Bakir is also unavailable because of suspension after picking up his fourth yellow in his last game.

Ampuan Nurul Azmi Ampuan Hussin is set to replace Hj Subhi in starting line-up.

Six other players-wtriker Shahrazen Said, midfielders Ivan Jerkovic and Helmi zambin, defenders Sairol Sahriand goalkeeper Wardun Yussof- are walking a tight-rope as they are all on three yellow cards and one will rule them out of the season-ender against Balestier. 

Hj Mohd Subhi's seventh minute strike was enough to put DPMM FC into the quarter finals of the Singapore League Cup after beating Tanjong Pagar 1-0 last night.

Handing the Jaguars their second loss of the tournament after after a 3-0 defeat to SAF FC on Thursday, last night's result means DPMM FC and SAF FC are into Saturday's last eight at the expense of Tanjong Pagar - who with two losses as many games will have to settle for the Plate Competition as one of the four bottom teams in the four groups.

Playing in the first match of the League Cup, Croatian midfielder Ivan Jerkovic helped give DPMM a dream start after lashing n a dangerous free-kick into the box at the Queenstown Stadium.

Though Brazilian centreback Tales Dos Santos had his shot saved by the goalkeeper, right back Hj Subhi Abdilah was the quickest to react -giving the visitors a lead they would fight to hold on until the final whistle.

"It was a typical DPMM free-kick...but then drama until the end," said Vjeran Simunic after the game.

"We had three or four excellent chances to scoreafter that but we didn't. and we suffered as a result.

"Tanjong Pagar are hard to beat since they have many good foreign players Bayonne ...They call him Zlatan Ibrahimovic of te team.

"But I'm happy woth how we played now there is no pressure on us," added the Croatian.

DPMM take on SAF FC in their second Group A game on Wednesday, the match at the Yishun stadium deciding which team will top the group.

The group winners will take on Group C runners-up, either Home Utd or Hougang United -  the two teams set to face off on the same night. 

Brunei DPMM FC kick off their Singapore League Cup campaign tonight with a game against Tanjong Pagar Utd tonight at the Queenstown Stadium tonight.

DPMM FC are no strangers to the S-League Cup scene, having registered their last success by lifting the trophy back in 2009, after claiming the trophy back in 2009, and they will be hoping history plays in their favour when they meet the Warriors again in their group match few days time. 

Brazilain import, Patrick da Silva grabbed the headlines last week with his first two goals for the club since signing on the dotted line during the mid-season transfer window on Jun 29.

 Team Manager,Ali Hj Momin was perhaps the most relieved to see Brunei DPMM FC's summer addition finally rediscovers his goalscoring form during a pivotak part of the season where every goal will be every worth its weight in gold.

"Patrick is finally blending with the team.Last game he showed us how good he is, and that now gives us another option of scoring,"Ali Momin said of Da Silva

Equally as impressed was head coach Vjeran Simunic, who insisted that the striker had big boots to fill following the departureof compatriot,Rodrigo Grahl.

"He replaced Rodrigo, who is a very good player," remarked Simunic.

"We hope he can score more goalsand help our team with more games,"added the Croatian.

Asked whether the S-League Cupwould be a distraction from the club's wavering title hopes, Ali Mpmin responded by saying: "The S-League Cup is a good way for us to build confidence. After losing three straight games,our team morale was low, but last week's win has raised our confidence a bit."

DPMM FC has no fresh injury concerns ahead of the s-League campaign, and the addition of the Patrick nicknamed "Hulk" could be anymore beneficial, as healthy competition for a starting berth and hopefully bring out the best from the Merah Hitam.

"Every team needs at least five good strikers, and PAtrick is one of them.Adi must wait and will take his chance off the bench," commented Simunic. 

Two penalties, one red card, and a whole lot of emotion - at the end of the night, all it made was one miserable point for DMM FC.

Ten men DPMM were made to work for last night's draw with Gombak United, the result, a bitter pill for Vjeran Simunic's men to swallow after Shahrulrizal Rahman was sent to the showers in the 54th minute by referee W.Ravisanthiran who only after consulting the linesmen and a fourth official, felt the right back deserved a straight red after bringing dow, Julien Durand and preventing the scoring opportunity, which onyl video replays will confirm at the edge of the box inside.

Despite left back SairoSahri also backtraining after captain and makeshift libero Rosmin Khamis lost the ball in midfield, and like Sahrulrizal, was involved in stopping Durand- meaning the right back was not the last man - did not matter to the Singaporean ref.

The Hassanal Bolkaih Stadium rose as onw when Wardun saved Mustaqin Manzur's penalty but might have been to much to ask from the goalie to save the second.

Rosmin brought down Ahmad Suhaimi in the 80th minute, the substitute perhaps reacting too dramatically to contact - though ravisanthiran didn't hesitate to pointing to the spot this time.

Gombak's team captain Gabriel Aikhena confidently stepped up to convert the visitor's second penalty, shooting low and to the right as Wardun dived to the same left.

The penalty cancelled out a superb 48th minute opener from Shahrazen Said, the striker netting his 10th goal of the season after a pass from Ivan Jerkovic and letting rip from outside the box - with Gombak goalkeeper Zaiful Nizam unable to prevent the shot from nestling in the top left cormer.

The draw mans that DPMM now have a dismal record of one win, 1 draw and 4 losses to show from their last 6 games, the poor point tally coinciding with their first match of the second round, a 1-0 loss to Tampines.

The draw also left DPMM coach Simunic fuming at the opposition bench at the final whistle, shouting at the members of the Gombak bench and declaring that the resulat was tainted.

"My players are heros!," he declaredafter he had settled down.

"All my players deserved an excellent mark.

Wardun saved the first penalty and I am soory he didn't saved the second.

Maybe now we have lost the chance for a double but we are still alive.Football in Brunei will never die!

"We played with only two imports against a team with plenty of imports ... Agian, we were very unlucky with the decisions," conceded the Croatian, though Md Hendra Azam  certainly made his mark in the midfield and Shahrazen's brother,Adi was a threat throughout.

Simunic would later go on to congratulate his counterpart K.Balagumaran at the tunel, shaking his hand, sarcastically retorted that they were a team capable of a Top-5 finish.

"I think the way the game went, we deserved at least a point," admitted Balagumaran.

"From my angle, I thought they were both penalties...But there are always plus and munuses for everybody makes mistakes," he added.

DPMM midfielder Azwan Salleh cleard a Durand shot off the line in the 14th minute, and just seconds later the Frechman would shhot over the bar,

Relying too heavily on long balls forwaed, DPMM didn't link up well on the attack - especially wiith a well organised defence marshalled by aikhena.

Gombak, on the other hand, defended stoutly in the half and looked to play on the counter and released Durand whenever possible.

Adi had two chances before the half, as did Jerkovic and Hendra.

DPMM FC remained composed despite Shahrurizal's dismissal, with Gombak failing to pressure the hosts after they were down to 10 men and happy tolimit themselves to pots from long-range.

Ahmed came close to grabbing a winner for the visitors in the 84th minute and at the other end, Jerkovic mistimed a 90th minute volley before Durand had a tame effort saved.

DPMM FC snapped a three-game losing streak and finally got back to winning ways.

The Sultanate's only professional club defeated basement dwellers Geylang Utd 3-1 in the league last night at the Bedok Stadium.

In their first win in over two months, new signing brazilian forward Patrick da Silva notched a brace in what was his second appearance for the team.

It was a setback for DPMM before the start as hitman Shahrazen Said picked up an injury during warm up.His younger brother took over his place in the starting line-up.

Veteran Og Sallehuddin was given the role as captain with the absence of Rosmin Khamis who picked up his fourth yellow in the previous match.

It was Brunei who first struck via defener tales Ricarte dos Santos in the 30th minute.

With Adi Said and Hj Md Subhi wreaking havoc in the defence at the near post during DPMM FC corner, Dos Santos was left free to shoot.

His first attempt was blocked was blocked by Geylang goalkeepr Md Yazid but he made not mistake in the rebound.

After making his little impact in his debut last wednesday against the Tampines,Da Silva netted his first goal in the 51st minute.

He then gave DPMM a three goal cushion after finding the back of the net in the 53rd minute, in similar fashion to his first goal which started out from midfield.

Geylang managed to pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 80th minute.

DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic was relieved that they manage to notch all three points since they are eyeing a top-five finish by the end of the season.

"It was a long time since we tested victory and we knew how important this game is.We would be in troubel if we lost,"said Simunic in an interview yesterday.

"Everyone played their role and did well.The two strikers (Osman and ds Sailva) worked together really well tonight. Geylang had nothing to lose and made it a tight battle," he said.

"We are finally in a good mood again and we are ready for the big battle again till the end of the season," continued the Croatian. 

Turkey's Super Lig. team Samsunspor are the latest club keen to sign leading scorer in the Nigeria Premier League Sibi Gwar, his agent has disclosed.

The Niger Tornadoes striker has scored 16 goals for the season and his representative Bright Okafor told MTNFootball.com that Samsunspor are the latest team to show interest to sign the player.

He said," Sibi is the hottest striker in Nigeria now and many teams have shown interest in him. KAA Gent in Belgium as well as Brunei DPMM FC have shown interest in signing him.

"Sibi Gwar received an offer for trial from Bnei Yahuda of the Israeli Super League team and was to travel last week, but he turned down becuase he wants to represent Nigeria in the friendly against Niger Republic," revealed the confidant.

"This is the first time he is getting national team recognition so he does not want to miss it for anything. He believes it will increase his rating and can give him better deal if he had the chance to play for Eagles and do well."

"It is obvious Sibi won't play in Nigeria next season but his destination is not known yet."

DPMM FC are trying to invite him for tryouts around the end of November as for preparation for the next season. 

DPMM FC take on bottom of the table Geylang United in the S-League tonight looking for their first win in two months.

Fans will have to go back to May 1o for the last time Brunei's most renowned football club were in the win column beating Balestier Khalsa 3-1 in the as the league's first round drew to a close.

But their fortunes have suffered since then, and losing all four of their competitive games and scoring only one during that period, the team find themselves in uncharted territory.

DPMM FC beat Geylang 4-1 the last time the two games met, with Tales Ricarte and Helmi Zambin opening their scoring for the club at the Hassanal Bolkaih National Stadium on March,16.

While they are usually in confidence mood heading into such an encounter, considering their recent run, tobight's match at the Bedok Stadium is hardly three points in the bag for DPMM FC.

"This is football, anything can happen," warned left back Sairol Sahari yesterday.

"We don't take any game lightly ...  We're always going out there to try our best.

"Even though they are at the bottom of the league ... they also want to try and beat us. 

After back-to-back defeats caused them to lose top spot in the league, Bruneian outfit DPMM FC will be keen to claim it back quickly when they take on high-flying Albirex Niigata at Jurong East Stadium Wednesday evening.

Singaporean powerhouses Tampines Rovers and SAF were the two teams that did the damaga against the Bruneians, with their respective 1-0 and 2-1 victories against a side that, at one point, seemed invicible.

The defeat at the Warriors' hands was particularly hard to take, as it cam at the hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Brunei, where DPMM had been undefeated for almost three full years.

That match was played at the end of June, and although the bruneians kept their top ranking then, the complexion of the league has changed in little under a month.

Albirex snatched top spot from them last week, thanks to a comprehensive 2-0 victory over Woodlands,which was the White Swans fourth in a row.Kaichi Sugiyama's  charges are also on an unbeaten run in the league that stretches al the way back to the start of April. 

That run is now eight matches long as the newer Albirex players look to outdo their colleagues last year, who had led the club to the best league finish in their history.

With such a record, it is no wonder DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic acknowledged the quality Albirex have shwon.

The usually-loud Croat has even taken the unusual measure of trying a place as the underdogs heading into the match.

"I've always said that Albirex are a very good team and they will challenge for the title,"he claimed in an interview on the eve of the match.

"Before the start of the league,"'ve said it, and now they are holding top spot.They have now unbeaten in eight matches and have even beaten Tampines and SAFFC, who defeated us.

"It will be very difficult but we can try our best tomorrow,"

Still Simunic and his men can take heart,knowing they have already beaten the Japanese once this year, grabbing a 2-1 victory at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Grahl had apparently fallen with the club management but his departure has left Simunic lacking some much-needed bite in attack.

To make things a bit harder,powerfully-built defender Taled dos santos will be suspended for this tie after picking four yellows for the  season.

"Without Rodrigo we've lost two games," pointed out Simunic.

"I am daisppointed because we played well but just couldn't score against Tampines and SAF. We will also be without dos Santos so it will not be easy.

"We only have two foreigners, whikle other teams have more.It is not that i don't trust my local players,but they don't have much experience playing in the S-LEague."

Still despite their known abilities,Simunic persistently stuck by his public linethat he was not gunning for the championship.

"I am targeting for a top five finish,"he said.

"This year, the league is very good and there are many good teams contending for the championship.Even SAFFC can become champions!

"All teams can beat each other, and Ive always said DPMM will just challenge this year.We'll just fight every game."

Sugiyama, like his opposite number for the Wednesday's clash, declined to talk about the team's title chances, but unlike Simunic, who had alot to say about Albirex, the 40-yar old opted to avoid commenting on DPMM.

"For now, I want to think about my own team,"he toldsleague.com.

"while I am happy aboutthat we were able to go to the top of the table,I'm not thinking about that now.What is important is that we are at the top at the end.

"Till then,we need to play our good football and keep doing our best in every match.

"I am satisfied with the way the team's playing, but we can be much better and stronger."

That desire to keep getting better, even though they are performing so well, is waht keeps Albirex on their toes,and to get their fifth win in a row against one of the top teams would clearly send message about their intentions.

Making the summit of the table their own would also be the perfect way to head into the defence of their League Cup crown. 

Undoubtedly,this match will be a keenly-contested one, with Bruneians desperately hoping to avoid a third straight defeat, while Albirex look to do their fans proud by taking all three points against a much-heralded title rival. 

DPMM's S-League match against Albirex Niigata tonight might just be the turning point to their season.

Not only they lost their last three competitive games, DPMM FC have scored only one goal during that period though Adi said's strike wasn't enough to prevent the team from surrendering their ubbeaten home record this season to SAF FC.

With nearly a month having passed since their home loss to the Warriors, the players knows that finding a way past the organised Japanese outfit at the Jurong East Stadium tonight will be a much-needed confodence booster - especially since they have another away game to geylang United this Saturday.

The team's top-scorer with 8 goals,Shahrazen Said admitted their poor form in the table and infront of goalhas been giving him sleepless nights lately.

"Thinking about it is making me stressed!" he groaned.

"The long break has had a huge affect on us...Training is the same as begore the league started - the problem is just the long break," he added.

Though DPMM beat Albirex 2-1 the last time the two teams net in March,Sairol Sahari knows the team can't afford to rest on the laurels.

"Its important for us to win against Albirex and Geylang because I think seven clubs have the chance to be on top," pointed out the left back.

"It has been a long break and we've only been playing each other during this time.

"I hope we can come up with a good result but i know it won't be easy - We'll have to work hard. I also hope we won't waste chances infront of goal because we've been traing hard at scoring," he stressed.

Though the goals have dried up since Brazilian striker Rodrigo Gral left the club late May due to injury, his replacement Patrick Silva, who was signed on the S-LEague transfer deadlineon June 29th, might be given his first taste of Singapore football tonight.

The 27-year old Da Silva has averaged one goal every two games since lacing up as a professional in 1999 but it would be inwise to expect too much of the Brazilian on his debut,withe former Sydney forward himself insisting the regaining match-fitness after two and a half months out of action would be his biggest priority.

But talking to Shahrazenand Sairol,it appaers the tall striker has settled down well at the club.

"We will have to see how he does in his first match... but he has already showed us his ability and skill during training.I like the way he plays," noted Shahrazen.

"From what I have seen during his time with usI can say he will do well in the S-League.He's a good player and always follows the coach's orders," added Sairol. 

Ivan Jerkovic's 50th Asian goal couldn't have come at abetter time for the DPMM FC fan-favourite.

The Croatian central-midfielder netted the third goal during the 3-1 win over the Young Lions in their S-LEague match last week, the result was only their second in their seven games since the start of the second round in June.

The goal came after Ghanaian striker Osman Bashiru pounced on a weak back pass to the Young Lions goalkeeper and laid the ball off to Jerkovic, with DPMM FC captain Rosmin Khamis and left back Sairol Sahari putting the visitors infront after benjamin Kristofferson Lee game the hosts a 64th minute lead at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

Jerkovic started his journey in Asia back in 2006 when he signed for sarawak and netted four times, going on to play for Indonesian outfit Pelita Jaya (12 goals) and PDRM(3 goals) over the next two years.

His first stint with DPMM FC saw him net 12 times but the country's suspension in 2009- and DPMM FC's subsequent expulsion from the league-forced him to move to SAFFC, where he found the back of the net 15 times over the course of one and a half years.

He moved back to DPMM FC last year, and his fourth goal this season marked half a century of strikes for the 33-year old.

"Its very nice to have scored 50 goals ... I'm a midfielder, not a strier, but I stlll like attacking football," he said yesterday.

"Our tactics are now different from 2009.Rosmin and I now play more defensively because we have three strikers,so there's not much space to go forward.

"Back in 2009, we onl played with two strikers. So now I only have chances to score from free-kicks,penalties and long-range shots.

"I don't really set myself a target of goals at the start of the season though.

"When I was younger, I always wanted to score, but now winning trophies is the most important thing to me,"he admitted.

Winning trophies- he has two Singapore League Cup titles with DPMM FC - probably wasn't the first thing on his mind when he moved from Croatia to Kuching in 2006 though, explaining that it was more for a change of scenery than anything else.

"An agent from Malaysia tole me Sarawak were looking for a midfielder, so I signed a four-month contract and I thought I would leave after that.

But that's football,you never know what's going to happen." 

DPMM FC will meet SAF FC and Tanjong Pagar Utd in the group stage of this year's Singapore League Cup.

The date and venues of the matches were not revealed during yesterday's draw in Singapore but it is known that 12 S-League teams divided into 4 groups will be competing  in this years event, with Harimau Muda the only team not in action.

SAF are not to be taken lightly though, the Warriors inflicting DPMM their first home loss this season last month when they beat them 2-1.

Despite SAF also enjoying the distinction of being the most successful Singapore club after winning the league with a record of 8 times, DPMM 's manager AliMomin had no problems with yesterday's draw.

"For me, all the clubs are at the same level,"said the ex-national player.

 "Of course SAF have strong imports and locals ... But for us it doesn't matter who we face - we will always try to do our best," he insisted.

To this day the 2009 Singapore LEague Cup victory which came after 4-3 penalty shoot-out against the Warriors, remains DPMM biggest international haul.

It also made them the only foreign side to lift the trophy, a feat made all the memorable considering it was DPMM FC's first year in the S-League.

No surprise then Ali feels the rest of the field will be keeping an eye on them.

"Of course there is pressure on us," he said.

"The other teams will all take us seriously and give their 100%, so it will be difficult," he noted.

The side has failed to win any of their past three competitive games, including the Singapore Cup defeat, but with Brazilain striker Patrick da Silva recently joining the team,three points in their next game - Wednesday's S-League match against Albirex - might just be on the cards. 

DPMM FC signed Brazilian striker Patrick Roberto da Silva as their last import just as the S-League transfer window closed yesterday.

The 27-year old Da Silva started his career with Saao Paulo FC in 1999,going out to play in Mexico and Australia- where he scored 15 goals in 30 appearances for Sydney Utd from 2007 to 2009.

The tall striker replaces compatriot Rodrigo Gral as DPMM FC's fourth and final import, the 35-year old Rodrigo Gral having left the league table-toppers late May after a lingering knee injury.

A string of players have passed through the team's base at the Jeruding PArk Mini Stadium hoping to impress coach Vjeran Simunic during trials since Gral left, and it is undersstood Da Silva got the nod ahead of around 10 others.

The team have lost all three of their last matches since Gral left and the slump has been attributed to the side's relative lack of experience.

Speaking to the Brunei Times,Ali Hj Momin said that the Brazilian's know-how was a big reason the club put pen to paper yesterday and offered the striker contract until the end of the S-League season in November.

"We want his experience,"said the DPMM FC manager Ali Momin.

"He's been with us on trial for two weeks and though we had a lot of players here as well, management decided he was the one.

"We made rankings for all the players who have been on trial and he came out on top," he explained.Ali also said that though Da Silva is new to the region, the Brazilian will have more pressing things to worry about than the climate.

"The weather is not a problem for him,"said the 1999 Malaysia Cup champion player.

"That he blends in well with the locals and the others ...  That is the most important," he stressed.

Not only Gral's injury was a concern with DPMM FC, the former Jubilo Iwata found it hard to link up with the team's other strikers - so Da Silva's first task will be to prove that he can form a successful partnership with Shahrazen and Osman.

Da Silva is expected to make his debut during their next match against Albirex Niigata on July,18, though it all depends on whether DPMM FC can get his International Transfer Certificate(ITC) from Brazilian club Osvaldo Cruz.

Fourth in the league and two points adrift of DPMM FC, Albirex Niigata are a ptent threat to any team - and DPMM know they will need all hands on deck when they face the Japanese next month. 

DPMM FC's unbeaten S-League home record came crumbling down last night, looking decidedly second-best throughout their 2-1 loss to SAF FC.

Never in any of their two S-League seasons have Brunei's premier club look at home, and though they still top the 13- team table, Tampines Rovers FC's 3-1 win over Balestier Khalsa in last night's other game means the defeding champions are now equal on points with DPMM second only because of goal difference.

With Home and Albirex just two points adrift, DPMM's next game on July 18 against Albirex away takes on more significance, as do their next two games, which will also be played in Singapore.

DPMM FC's third loss of the season, and their second in many matches, the team never really got their passing ging at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium and their striker forced suffered a sa result.

Eight time champions, SAF outruned DPMM's midfield most of the game, with Croatian Marin Vidosevic particularly impressve in the cnetre back role with several last-ditch tackles and key intrceptions.

SAF's Fazrul Nawaz opened the scoring in the 15th minute after connecting on a cross from Aliff Shafaein, and though Adi Said leveled the scores for the hosta after heading home a 33rd minute cross from Rosmin Khamis to net his first goal of the season,DPMM FC failed to sustain any offensive pressure in the second half.

A cross from Mislav Karoglan,last season's top scorer, was punched by Wardun in the 56th minute, but in anattempt to clear the ball,Hj Subhi Abdilah turned into his own net canceling out his good work to clear the ball off the line during SAF's previous attack.

Opting for long balls as the game wore on, DPMM FC created several chances in the dying minutes most notably through defender Tales dos Santos who hit the crossbar in injury time.

Vjeran Simunic seemed resigned to the loss and admitted that his team didn't deserve to win.

With the team losing their first round of the Singapore RHB Cup tie against Home last month, the side has now failed to win any of their past three competitive games, and DPMM FC's coach noted that every loss mena sa frop in confidence.

Its been three years ...We knew we would lose at home one day," said Simunic.

"We did a good job but it just wasn't our day.We created many chances in the last five minutes, we deserved to draw.

"We played with many long balls because the players wanted to score as soon as possible, but that is not our recognisable game.That was ot something we decided on.This team isn't as experienced as Tampines, SAF or Home Utd," added the Croatian.

Ashed why  he did not tell the players to discard their long ball tactic, Simunic only shrugged and replied, "They did not follow".

With Vidosevic and Danie Bennett thwarting any threat from long balls and crosses, and DPMM lacking their usual creativity in the middle of the park, there were always signs that the dreaded first defeat was on the cards.

THE PRESSURE is on and they know it.

DPMM FC face Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas tonight, and with a tough series of three consecutive away games after this the first one against Albirex, DPMM FC cannot be satisfied with anything less than three points.

SF FC have one draw and two defeats to show from their three previous encounters with DPMM the most painful loss, the 4-3 penalty shoout-out defeat which handed DPMM FC the 2009 Singapore Cup.

Though he enjoyed his one and a half years playing for SAF FC, Ivan Jerkovic is leaving those fond memories in the dressing room tonight.

"Its nice to play again with some of my old friends...but this is a very, very important game, so we must forget whether we are friends or ot,"said the Croatian."The first thing on my mind is three points.

"Albirex won last night(Thursday) and now the gap is just two points, though we have a game in hand.

"If we win the gap will be five points and that will will be very important," he stressed.

The most successful Singaporean club, the Warriors have won the S-League a record of eight times and have only finished outside the Top 2 in three of the 16 S-League seasons.

But tis season's campaign hasn't been as noteworthy they currently sit seventh in the 13 team table, and with 18 points from 13 games and are a massive 11 points adrift of DPMM.

Jerkovic insists SAF FC are still a team to be reckoned with though.

"Thy have a great left-winger in Inui, who was named the S-League's best young player when he was at Albirex last season,"he pointed out.

"Thy have also have striker Mislav Karoglan, who was the league's top-scorer last season.He scored 33 goals in 33 games that's like something from the Playstation," he laughed.

SAF FC's coach Richard Bok wasn't laughing about his team's recent form.

Their last match last Sunday saw them lose 4-3 to Albirex, late goals by Yamokoshi Yasuhiro and Atsushi Shimono cancelling out a 3-1 lead the Warriors had build thanks in part to brace from Karoglan.

His side has scored 24 but let in 23 this season a far cry from DPMm FC, who have the best goal difference thiss eason after scoring 29 and letting in 12.

"We need to tighten up our defence," said Bok yesterday.

"DPMM are a very disciplined team, hardworking. They are well drilled defensively and are good at the back and also have some strong strikers in Osman,Shahrazen  and his brother Adi.

"As for Jerkovic, we parted ways amicably.He's a good lad and worked hard for us,"said the three-time S-League Coach of the Year winner. 

Shahrazen Said believes DPMM FC's spirit can guide them to the Singapore League Cup final as they prepare to take on SAFFC in the semifinals tonight.

Shahrazen was again instrumental for DPMM FC in the quarterfinal penalty shoot-out triumph over Home United, as he stepped up to score the winning penalty on Saturday evening at the Yishun Stadium in Singapore.

Goalkeeper Wardun Yussof  became DPMM FC's hero after pulling out two saves in the shoot-out, and Shahrazen insists the team must now seize the opportunity to reclaim the League Cup that they have won in 2009.

"We are just two games away from winning the title. We won the cup back in 2009, we defeated SAFFC 5-4 on penalties and we are aiming in winning the title again this year," said Shahrazen.

"The preparation ahead of the semi-final match has been good. The mood is great and the players are in a high spirit ahead of the game. I am not sure I will be able to score this time around, but I will do my best to help the team to win the game in anyway possible, that is most important," added the 2006/7 Malaysian Super League top goalscorer.

Pg Md Waslimin, the DPMM FC club manager, meanwhile told the Brunei Times that the squad are ready ahead of the semi-final match against SAF tonight. However DPMM FC will be without experienced defender Pg Sallehuddin Damit, who sustained injury against Home United on Saturday. 

"It will be a 50-50 game. SAF is a good team and they have good midfielders. I am expecting our midfielders to work extra hard in the game, he added.

Vjeran Simunic believes its too early to talk about Singapore Armed Forces FC's two new Croatian imports.

The record eight time Singapore League champions recently signed Marin Jonjic and Marin Vidosevic the duo joining former Tanjong Pagar creative midfielder Aliff Shafaein as the Warriors three new names on the team list at the start of the second round of the S-League.

Both first-timers to the region, Jonjic, a 20-year old winger, and Vidosevic, came from the same club in croatia, second division side NK Imotski.

Though the expectations on their shoulders may be high, DPMM FC's Croatian coach thinks the duo need time to prove themselves.

"I know them but its not correct for me to say they are good, not good," noted Simunic yesterday.

"They will need time to adjust (to Asia)just like other players," said the coach, who has experience coaching in Croatia.

S-League leaders DPMMFC host SAF on Saturday, when Brunei's only professional club looking to shed the memories of last week's 1-0 defeat to Tampines Rovers.

Gligor Gligorov scored his first competitive goal for Tampines by capitalising on a minute mix-up in DPMM FC's defence late into regulation time, and Simunic is still seething about the manner of the defeat.

The S-League website rported that Gligorov had sn his initial shot pushed away by Wardun, but the defence did not notice the ball was still in play.

Tampines 42-year old captain Aleksander Duric and Ahmed Latiff Khamarudin had not given up on the attack, and after battling to make sure the ball stayed in play, sent it back into the box from the left where Gligorov steered it home.

"We didn't go to Singapore to draw. We went to win, but we deserved to draw," Simunic said.

"The last few minuted I was shouting to them all to cencentrate. I think we lack the same sort of experience other big teams have," he added.

Though Ivan Jerkovic is also familiar with his compatriots Jonjic and Vidosevic and believes they can help SAF move up the table from an uncharacteristic seventh the DPMM FC midfielder was just as eager to tlak about the Tampines game.

"I still can't believe it," sighed the Croatian.

"This happened last time too and I thought we 'd have learnt from these mistakes,"he said, referring to their season opener against Tampines when the Stags snatched a 2-2 draw after another late goal.

"SAF have now 5 imports and since only 4 can play.I think Jonjic who is younger will play in the Prime League and will be called up in case of suspension.

"I don't really know much about them though I've spent so many years playing in Asia," added the former SAF and Pelita Jaya FC(Indonesia Super League) midfielder. 

Gligor Gligorov's goal a minute from time saw tampines Rovers climb to second in the Great eastern-YEO's League with an entertaining 1-0 win over leaders DPMM FC.

The Republic of Macedonia headed n from close range with injury time beckoning to get his side off to the perfect start after the summer break whereas DPMM could count themselves slightly unlucky, having seena n effort bounce off the post just before half-time.

The match began in thrilling fashion with less than a minute on the clock.Basiru Osman stormed past Imran Sahib and Anaz Hadee on the left bwfore crossing for Shahrazen whose header failed to hit the target.the subsequent loose ball fell to Ivan Jerkovic and Sasa Draven had to be alert to tip the midfielder's goal-bound from 25 yards out over.

Tampines had an even better chance to take the lead in the eigth minute, when Jamil Ali's lovely ball - played with the outside of his right foot, found Aleksander Duric completely unmarked six yards from goal, but the striker perhaps still rusty after the break, made a hash of his shot.

After such a frenetic start, the match settled down into a rhythmwith both sides playing some eye-catching display.Showing what basiru has done, he could do better.Adi Said embarked on a magnificient jinking run on the left in the 17th minute,leaving three Stags in his wake before entering the area.Having done all the hard work, and with only Sasa to beat, the forward hit his shot into the hedges behind the Tampines goal.

The pattern of cut and thrust continued with Ismadu Mukhtar's final ball to Duric just a tad to heavy after the two men had evxhanged a brilliant one-two on the edge of the area before a precision crossfield ball from Shahrazen forced Benoit Croissant into a last ditch clearance in the 27th minute with Helmi Zambin lurking just behind.

Having saved his side, Crissant almost brought disaster upon them six minutes later, when his misplaced headed pass to Ismaidi just outside the Tampines allowed Helmi to nip in, but the Frenchman did well to recover quickly and force the winger to shoot wide.Having flirted with danger, the home side uped the temp, carving out some great chances but failing to take any of them.

First Duric tumed Tales daos Santos superbly inside the area, only to see his shot saved by Wardun Yusof, before teeing up Ahmad Latiff with a cushioned header, but the midfielder's 20-yard striker flew inches over.Croissant who had been so heavily involved the game them intercepted a pass from Rosmin to launch a lightning counter by finding Gligorov on the right.The playmaker floated in a teasing ball that would have found Duric if not for the 6'5 Dos Santos.

Tampines were almost made to pay for maong the most of their opportunites in the final minute of injury time when Shahrazn's curling cross right in between the backline and the keeper saw Adi nip from the other flank and head the ball past Sasa, who was caught in no-man's land. The small bur raucous Brunei contingent rose as one in anticipation of a goal, only to let out groans of disappointment as it bounced back off the left post before being cleared by Mustafic.

Perhaps disheartened by that desperate piece of luck, the visitors seemed to goo off the boil after the break,allowing the Stags midfield to dictate proceedings.The home side should have gone ahead in the 59th minute when a superb dead-ball delivery from Gligorov found Sead Hadzibulic free on the far post, but the striker somehow managed to hit the keeper's leg with his free header two yards from goal.It was a narrow escape for DPMM, but perhaps deserved after their own misfortune just before the break.

Gligorov then won a free-kick of his own less than five minutes later;but Mustafic's well-struck effort fizzed over the bar.Tampines were piling on the pressure with only a last-gasp Dos Santos block preventing Imran's shot from finding the net bfore Gligorov's sweetly timedshot from all of 30 yards out skimmed the crossbar.The visitors themselves had failed to really test the defence in the second half thus far, with shots into the side netting from rosmin and Azwan their only notable attacks.

But as the match entered the final ten minutes, Vjeran Simunic's men started to spend more and more time in the opposition half.However the Stag's backline, helped ably by the likes of Latiff, Gligorov and Duric reduced them to shooting balnks from distance.It seems like a tame end to what had for themost part been an open and entertaining game.Gligorov had other ideas though.

When yet another DPMM attack broke down,Stags attacked swiftly down the centre before the 25-year old let fly with a ferocious shot that Wardun turned behind.

Or so it seemed.

Even as the visitors began to amble back to their positions tinking it was a goal-kick.Duric rushed to keep the ball in play and centered towards Gligor who had by then charged back into the area.Yussof and Shahrulrizal both made desperate lunges to stop the pass, but it struck Wardun before looping ober Gligorov who headed in from less than six inches out.

There was barely anytime for the shellshocked leaders to regroup before the referee blow his whistle, to send Tampines into second spot only three points behind their opponents. 

Can DPMM FC break the spell against Tmpines Rovers FC?

Brunei's only rofessional football team will resume their campaign in the S-League against the defending champions today at the Clementi Stadium in Singapore.

DPMM FC have never beaten the Stags in their previous four meetings one loss and three draws.

Their last was a 2-2 draw in their season opener on February 12 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

It was a good result considering that prior to that game, DPMM's last competitive game dated back to September,2009.

DPMM, who are currently at the summit of the league with 29 points from 12 games, know that it will be a tall task to upend their opponents especially since they boast more than four import players.

"They basically have six import players with with two of them naturalised foreigners.We are short one import and we will play eight locals," said Simunic in an interview witht eh Times before departure at the Brunei International Airport yesterday.

I'm proud of that for our country and we believe taht we can challenge a big team like Tampines,"he added.

Despite not being able to to get on the winning end against the Stags yet,Simunic believes that they may bale to do it.

"We could have won or loss all three matches which resulted in a draw.They were 50-50 games.Tampines are one of the top teams in the league and have played good football for years,"said Simunic, whose target is to finish in the Top-5 this season. 

In contrast,we are quite new to the league and we are up to challenge them.The team have done a good job over the past nine months by looking at our performance and hopefully results will come," added the Croatian mentor.

"We may be at the top of the league for now, but we face a horrible schedule for the next 5 games where we can either lose or win all," continued the 57-year old.

Another cause for concern for the Croatian mentor is that right back Hj Subhi Abdilah has been ruled out of the matchup due to injury.

"He is one of our main players and this will be a factor for us.I'm still in a dilemma on who I'll play.Maybe the experienced Salleh," stressed Simunic.

"We have not replaced as import as well since Rodrigo's departure but we might let Adi see some action alongside his brother Shahrazen,"he added.

The match kicks off at 7.45pm. 

DPMM FC and Sabah are relishing the opportunity to go head-to-head tonight.

The two teams meet in a friendly at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas at 8.15 pm today, with the match the first seriuos test Vjeran Simunic will have before DPMM FC prepare to resume their league campaign against defending champions Tampines Rovers on Friday.

"At the moment we only have the opportunity to play against Brunei league sides...Of course, we play among each other but that can get boring," said Simunic yesterday.

"I support the Malaysian leagues and I've watched Sabah on television.I know they have agood team, but some of their players are injured so they can't play tomorrow(today). 

"All the teams in Malaysia are a good challenge for us and I hope in the future we can have more friendlies against Sabah-maybe once a month,"added the Croatian.

Justin Ganai was just as receptive of the idea, the Sabah coach saying that he appreciated the invite DPMM FC sent them for the friendly.

"We're all very happy to be here.We too need a friendly match like this," said Ganai.

"I've heard DPMM FC have been doing very well, at the top of the S-League.

"I don't know about their players though," said Ganai.

Sabah are currently 10th in the MSL with 28 points from 26 games.

Speaking on the issue of the 3 foreign playerscuurently on trials with the club,Simunic said they all have their work cut out for them.

"Its not easy since Bruneian players have increased their level,their fitness.Its not like before," said Simunic.

They have probably improved 40-50 per cent since 2007.

"I may play some of the trial players against Sabah, but I must concentrate on the game against tampines - I must field my first-11 players.

"After all, even if the players are signed they can't be registered in time to play against Tampines," he added. 

Brunei DPMM FC will be playing Sabah in a friendly match which will be held at Hassanal Bolkiah NAtional Stadium on Saturday at 8.15pm.

The purpose of the friendly is to give both teams the relevant preparation for the commencement of the second half of their respective seasons in the S-League and the Malaysian Super League.

Coach Vjeran Simunic had previously stressed the need for friendly games against foreign teams during the break, and the opportunity to identify any week links in the teams and fortify them has presented itself which will ensure DPMM FC will be ready to defend their lead at the top of the table when their league campaign continues on June 15 against defending champions Tampines Rovers. 

Brunei DPMM have collected 29 points from a possible 36, and sit 5 points clear of Home Utd. Brunei DPMM have scored a staggering 29 goals, making them the league's top-scorers, and have conceded just 11 goals in 12 matches,a record bettered only by sixth placed Balestier Khlasa.

On the other hand, Sabah have had comparatively less success in the MSL. Sabah sit 11th in the table and have mustered only 19 points from 17 matches.

The team from Malaysia had no trouble finding the net, scoring 21 goals; however their defence has let them down this season after conceding 26 goals during this year's campaign, leaving them with a goal difference of minus 5.

Brunei DPMM confirmed on Monday that Rodrigo Gral would be leaving the club following a knee injury which will rule him out for an indefinite period of time.

The Brazilian forward joined DPMM before the league started back in February,2012 and scored four goals in 11 appearances during his five-month spell in the Sultanate.

In a phone interview with the Bulletin,Ali Hj Momin, the DPMM team managerconfirmed that the injury Rodrigo sustained midway thriugh the season was the reason for his departure.

"We can confirm that rodrigowill be leaving the club.We spoke to him, and he informedus that his injury required an operation that would require a while to recover.He will be flying back to Brazil this week,"remarked the team manager.

It will be a loss to the club with a player of his talent, but his departure means there will be a chance with the younger players like Adi and Najib to come through,"he added.

Rodrigo's departure couldn't have come at worse time, with Brunei's sole representatives in the S-League currently looking to defend their five-point lead at the top.

The departure means the team will have bring in several new players for trials, before going through the pain-staking procedure of whittling the candidates down to just one, who then have to pass all the requirements put forward by the Football Association of Singapore, which head coach cemented on during an interview at DPMM's training ground last week.

Brunei DPMM have currently confirmed that there are six inbound players who will be put through the paces in the coming weeks during a wecome month's break from S-League action.

The club have reverted to Rodrigo samba roots in bringing in former Sydney Utd striker Patrick da Silva from Brazil.Brunei DPMM have also brought in the 2008 Nigerian Premier League Golden Boot winner,Sibi Gwar, as they look to fill the void left by Rodrigo.

Trinidad and Tobago international,Devon Jorslin,Malian striker Ousmane Goita of Moroccan football club Hassania Agadir,Tunisia forward Abdelmajid Belgacem and AshantiGold SC's top-scorer last season,Yakubu Mohammad complete the list of candidtaes who will be looking to impress during the trials,and perhaps be the ones to fire Brunei DPMM FC to the S-League  title in their comeback season.

DPMM FC's latest loss to Home Utd has left themselves with more time to focus of their main aim this season - a Top-5-finish in the Singapore League.

Brunei's most dominant football club fell to their fourth loss in many games to the Singapore Cup titleholders last thursday,and the 1-0 first round defeat means the Protectors have now established themselves as DPMM FC's bogey team.

But S-League table-toppers have already put the result behind them-easy to do when they enjoy a five-point lead over second placed Home Utd and sfe in the knowledge they have the best goal difference in the league.

"Now we must concentrate in the league," said Ivan Jerkovic yesterday, whose strong play in central midfield has been a big part of the team's success.

"There are 12 games left and we have to take it one game at a time and do our best.

"Against Home Utd, we have many chances but didn't take them.They scored from the chance they had- but thats football," added the Croatian.

The team are set to enjoy a five-day break before training resumes next week, and their next game only on June 15, against Tampines Rovers at the Clementi Stadium- the players cannot be faulted for wanting to put their legs up for a bit.

Though he welcomed the break,Jerkovic said that the team have to be going full-stream ahead once the second round starts.

"Now without a game for one month... We have to continue where we left off," stated the midfield general,who was afraid the break would affect the team's momentum.

"When you stop, you have to start again...Play the same way.

"All the teams know we are at the top and they like to beat us.Tampines,SAFFC,Home...They're all hungry to win the title," he warned.

Agreeing the team now have to focus on the league,Sairol Sahri felt that the loss has given DPMM food for thought.

"We should use this as a lesson," said the left back.

"I don't know why but ...we've been played them four times and have never drawn," he said adding that DPMM have had no other problems against other S-League powerhouses sunsh as SAFFC or Tampines.

Talking to Md Subhi Abdilah Bakir, it didn't take long for him to point out the lessons he learnt from HomeUtd.

"They were just waiting for us,"said the right back.

"They played on the counter-attack.They usually play 4-4-2 but it was different ...They flooded more players in defence and midfield and just waited for us to make a mistake and that mistake cost us the game.

"We played well and followed coach's strategies and we had a lot of chances, but we were probably unlucky.

"It was our game for 90 minutes- I still think we were the better team." 

Home United overcame the absence throughsuspension of four key players and a second-half ejection to beat brunei DPMM 1-0 in the opening round of the 2012 RHB Singapore Cup, keeping alive their chances of claiming the coveted domestic trophy for a sixth time.

Already missing Great Eastern-Yeo's leaue leading scorer Frederic Mendy, prolific striker Shotaro Ihata, midfielder Shi Jiayi and Franklin Anzite to suspension, Home's face-off against the S-League leaders was compounded by the 55th minute red card shown to their mifdfielder Masrezwan Masturi for striking out Bruneian forward Shahrazen Said.

Apart from the red card, referee Sukhbir Singh also flashed five yellow cards in the tense encounter last night between the S-League's two top teams.

The Protectors are the only outfit to have beaten DPMM this season - 1-0 at Jalan Besar Stadium on April 19 - and it was deja vu for the 825 spectators at the Yishun Stadium.

The only goal came in the first half, which was looking like a dull affair until Home's 31-year old striker Qiu Li made a spirited run before cleverly slipping the ball ball to team-mate John Wilkinson to score.

With Home FC reduced to 10-men after Masrezwan's transgression,DPMM poured forward in search of parity but were kept out by a number of crucial saves from custodian Lionel LEwis.

Coach Vjeran Simunic was spotted throwing a water botlte in frustration at the end of the match,as he rued his team's missed chances.

"We made one mistake and that was enough for Home Utd.I congratulate them as they beat us today,"the Croatian told the media after the match.

"We played 10 attackers and created 10 chances.Lionel Lewis is the ebst goalkeeper in the S-League, and today, God and Lewis saved Home Utd."

As for Home coach Lee Lim Saeng, he was already ahead to the second round against SAFFC.

Said the Korean: "We were down to 10 men in the second half.It was not easy to keep up and I would like to thank my players.

"DPMM are a big team and it was very hard for us today.When our susppended players come back, we will have more confidence against SAFFC.I'm happy with the match and I hope they keep it up for the next game." 

Shahrazen Said doesn't think Rodrigo Gral's absence will hurt DPMM FC in their Singapore Cup opener against titleholders Home Utd tonight.

The misfiring Brazilian striker has been plagued by injury since joining the Singapore league leaders at the start of the season, and according to the club's website has now been released.

But talking to the Brunei Times, Shahrazen believes the team will still be able to function as a unit without the 35-year old, especially with younger brother Adi Said-more than capable of filling the Brazilain's boots at the Yishun Stadium.

"Now that Rodrigo is not with us, Adi will replace him so it will be both of us playing with Osman upfront," said the striker yesterday.

"I don't know playing without Rodrigo will affect us - we'll see after the game.

"He is very talented player and I have learnt a lot from him,"added Shahrazen.

Though Gral's class is unquestionable - he started his playing career with Ronaldinho in the Gremio youth team in the 1990'sand laced up for his country at the 2004 Olympics in Greece- the aging striker has been subject to the mixed reviews during his time at the Sultanate.

Often guilty of holding up play,Gral's dismissal just might be a blessing in disguise for DPMM - whose free-flowing attack has seen them top to the S-League scoring charts with 29 goals in 12 games.

Shahrazen, who is responsible for eight of those,was fully aware of the significance of tonight's game. 

Brunei's only professional club are flying high atop the S-League, but in Home Utd, they face a side that have proved to be a tough nut to crack. 

They have yet to beat Home Utd in any of their three previous attempts, suffering their only loss of the season against Home on April 19 - a 1-0 defeat.

But with Home Utd's star striker Frederic Mendy one of four players unavailable for tonight's gamedue to suspension, Sharazen believes the impetus is on DPMM to advance to the second round and set up a date with SAFFC - the army men beating Balestier Khalsa 6-5 on penalties on Monday night.

The news that Mendy will be sitting tonight's game out will eb a welcome boost for DPMM FC - his third minute goal that led to the loss last month.

Asked about the Frenchamn's impact,Shahrazen - who is joint-second in the S-League scoring table - felt that the striker was probably over-rated.

"For me, he is at the same level as the other foreign players in the league.I think if you compare him with Osman ... Osman's better,"he said cheekily.

"DPMM have never beat Home Utd so we must beat the record now.We must win this game.

"Four of their players aren't playing - Mendy is one of them - because they are carrying suspensions from last season's Singapore Cup.But they are a strong team even without those players,"added the 26-year old.

Shahrazen also said that Home United's two Japanese players, striker Shotaro Ihata and Kenji Arai, are also out with suspensions. 

Singapore League(S-League)leaders DPMM FC will turn their attention to the Singapore Cup come Thursday.

DPMM FC face the Protectors at the Yishun stadium in Singapore at 7.45pm, where a win will see them take SAFFC, who beat Balestier Khalsa 6-5 on penalties after both teams drew 1-1 in regulation in the Cup's opener at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium last night.

"From today(Monday)...I've started preparing the team for Home Utd," said DPMM FC's head coach yesterday, whose team enjoy a five-point lead over second-placed Home Utd in the league.

"I've got to see who's available and who's not.

"Gral is injured so I have to concentrate on the players I have.I might put in Adior Fakharazzi in his place,"said the Croatian.

DPMM FC were easily to put aside any lingering memories of the loss to Home Utd by winning their next three games,gaining nine valuable games to help them solidify their status at S-League top-dogs after the end of the first round of 12 games.

He was a lso happy that the team had managed a league-best nine wins from 12 games.

"We're the best in all categories!We've got 29 points from 12 games.We have scored the most goals(29)and conceded the least(11),"said Simunic.

"This is like a dream for me.These are fantastic results and we deserve it - but we must keep our feet on the ground,"he added.He also noted that Shahrazen Said is second in the goal-scoring charts.

Shahrazen and Home Utd' Shotaro Ihata are tied on 8 goals while Mendy has 11. 

DPMM FC came from a goal down to defeat Balestier Khalsa 3-1 in the Singapore League last night at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

The match signified the midway point of the season for DPMM and they sit at the top of the league with 29 points from 12 games.

Midfielder Ivan Jerkovic scored a brace for the Sultanate's only professional club in the victory.

Park Kang-Jin gave Balestier the lead through a corner which the ball curved in straight in.

Jerkovic then equalised in the 57th minute,from a freekick.

DPMM FC got the lead through forward Osman Basiru in the 74th minute.

DPMM went on the counterattack and Basiru would receive a good pass from Azwan Salleh to find the back of the net.

Basiru was once again involved in the third goal for DPMMjust before the final whistle.

However, it only got as far as Jerkovic who pounced on the rebound and slot home his second of the night to secure all three points for DPMM.

DPMM FC head coach, Vjeran Simunic, was ecstatic with the win, especially since they were playing away from homeand that they put three goals past the best defensive team in the league.

Prior to the match-up, Balestier had only allowed seven goals in 11 matches while DPMM were the best offensive team with 26 goals.

"We needed a win because we have have a difficult schedule for the second half of the season.The battle of the top-five is still very close and it could still be anyone's win," said Simunic.

"We are not flying yet.We are still on the ground.My target was to get to the level that we were back in 2009 but I'm really happy that we have surpassed that,"he added.

"Now we can enjoy being on top for at least the next month with the league taking a break," he continued.

Simunic also commented on his bench players being key to the team after Ak Fakharazzi made his debut to the team at halftime for Brazilian Rodrigo Gral.

"He(Fakharazzi) did a great job.We have a lot of young players on the team and need our bench to be ready.We know that they need the playing time,"explained the 57-year old.

The croatian mentor also hoped that the team can continue their form and not disappoint their fans. 

DPMM FC gave their fans something to cheer about in the pouring rain last night.

DPMM FC extended their lead at the top of the table with a 5-1 demolition of Hougang United at the hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Local boys Shahrazen Said and Azwan Salleh netted a brace each in the victory.The fomer who is the team's top-scorer,took his tally to eight goals after the game.

DPMM FC enjoyed a lot of possession in the first half and were continuously on the attack.It finally paid off when Shahrazen broke the deadlock for the hosts in the 38th minute.

It started out with Hougang goalkeeper,Fadhil Salim,slipping on a goalkick-gifting DPMM possession.The ensuing throw-in resulted in a cross from the left which beat the whole Hougang backline and allowed Shahrazen to easily headed home from close range for the lead.

Set-piece specialist Azwan Salleh doubled the lead just before half-time with a free-kick from 45 metres out.His effort failed to meet anyone, but instead crossed the line to make it 2-0 after the break.

Hougang came out strong after the interval- creating various chances.Mamadou Diallo had a good opportunity with a header, but was saved by Wardun Yussof in between the DPMM sticks.

However, the visitors was caught by surprise when Azwan struck again in the 54th minute with a long attempt that slipped under fadhil to give DPMM a 3-0 cushion.

Brazilian forward Rogrigo Gral almost got his name on the scoresheet in the 57th minute after curling a free-kick over the wall, but was dealt with by Fadhil.

Shahrazen got his second of the night after Hougang failed to clear the corner - allowing the DPMM hitman to easily slot it home from inside the box in the 65th minute.

DPMM FC were caught napping in the 74th minute and Diallo made them pay after receiving a good throughball from Jordan Webb to make it 4-1.

Diallo found the back of the net again two minutes later on a similar move, but was flagged for offside.

The fifth goal for the home side was courtesy of an own goal by Hougang defender Lau Meng Meng after he turned in a cross by Helmi Zambin the 86th minute.

To add icing on the cake, Wardun saved a penalty by Webb in what was the last kick of the match.

DPMM FC head coach, Vjeran Simunic, was delighted and praised his players for the overwhelming performance.

"I'm happy that it was the locals who scored all the goal.This will show other countries that the country has got good players," said Simunic in an interview after the win.

"Everyone on the team is the man of the match.All played very good football and the whole team deserved it.We were already at the level where we were back in 2009, but the team are hungry and I know that we can be better," added the 57-year old Croatian.

Simunic also had some words for fans who didn't turn up for the game. "People sitting at home should come over and support the team.Its like watching our very own Premier League here at the stadium instead of on TV." 

Croatian neighbours will turn rivals in the S-League today.

DPMM FC's Croatian head coach Vjeran Simunic is hoping to upend his compatriot Nenad Bacina when the Bruneians host Hougang Utd at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas today.

DPMM FC are still unbeaten at home with a record of five wins and one draw so far in the season.Th leatest was a 3-0 victory over Woodlands last Friday.

On paper the hosts should easily take all three points tonight from today's encounter.

However,Simunic will not take things lightly against Hougang Utd, who are on a four-game losing streak and currently sitting on 9th.

"It is not easy to stay on top because everyone else wants to put us down,"said Simunic at the pre-match Press Conference at the NFABD House in Berakas yesterday.

"We will treat every game like the World Cup final and never give up.We have moved forward from our loss against Home and we will do our best tomorrow(Saturday)," added the 57-year old Croatian.

"We respect Hougang becuase they are a good teamand they could have won their last four games.We expect a hard game,"he continued.

On the other hand his counterpart Bacina hopes that it will be third time lucky for him.

He had previously managed Woodlands and they lost both their games to DPMM.

"Hopefully tomorrow(Saturday)will be an exciting match.This is a great opportunity for the players to play infront of a big crowd," said Bacina.

"It is no secret, but DPMM are the main contenders in the league and they are at the top of the table.We did well in our four losses,but we just didn't get any points.We hope we can take away points from here," he added.

"We are in a good mood and are feeling confident.There should also be some pressure on the home team because we have nothing to lose,"continued the Croatian.

Hougang's biggest threat could come from their imports-forward Mamadou Diallo and midfielder Jordan Webb.The latter is the team's top-scorer with 7 goals to his name.

DPMM have no injury concerns, but risk getting suspensions shoild some of their players pick up yellow cards tonight. 

Vjeran Simunic has no qualms about meeting defending champions Home United in the first round of the Singapore Cup.

Home United inflicted S-League leaders DPMM FC their only loss of the campaign last month, though the Bruneians quickly bounced back from the 1-0 defeat on April 19 by beating Woodlands Wellington 3-0 last Friday.

Though Sunday's Singapore Cup draw made for some interesting headlines after 2009 Singapore League Cup champions,DPMM FC were pittedagainst Home Utd, the team's head coach seemed disinterestedwhen asked to comment on the tie-especially with the date and venue yet to be revealed.

"I don't know where we're playing," noted Simunic yesterday.

"I only want to concentrate on our next league game against Hougang United.

"I always treat all the teams the same- especially in a Cup competition.Its different because its just 90 minutes. 

"Its no problem for me ... Home,Balestier

"I'd have been a little happier if we had drawn the Cambodian team or Geylang or Tanjong Pagar-But I'm still happy.

"Anyway ... Hougang is still out biggest game," he insisted.

Though its understandablethe Croatian was thinking a tie against two of the S-League's worst teamsthis season would mean one leg in the next round,Tanjong Pagar have proved they cannot be underestimated.

The league 's basement dwellers,Tanjong Pagar shocked Home Utd 1-0 last week to show that fourth-placed Protectors aren't as invicible as some might think. 

DPMM FC gave Vjeran Simunic the perfect birthday present last night, cruising to a 3-0 win over Woodlands wellington to ince again move to the top of the league.

The Croatian turned 57 yesterday and his players made sure it was a day to remember, with Rodrigo Gral scoring a brace after Shahrazen put the hosts in the driving seat with a fourth minute goal.

Enjoying large spells of possession and play,they also enjoy a two-point lead over Balestier.

The team would celebrate the final whistle by showering Simunic with water and portions of the Hassanal Bokliah Stadium joined the fun by singing him "Happy Birthday".

"I have never lost on my birthday!Never,"he proudly declared.

"This present is not only for me, but also for this beuatiful country.I think this is the most beautiful games of the season and the fans really enjoyed it,"he added.

The fans had every reason to enjoy DPMM FC's 10th game of the season -after all Shahrazen's sixth goal of the campaign gave DPMM added confidence to ride out their seventh win. 

The Woodlands defence gave Shahrazen too much space on the right flank,and cutting past his defender, the striker unleashed a left-foot shot from inside the box which caught Ahmaduhaq Che Omar flat-footed.

Helmi and Osman bashiru had attempts that sailed wide of the bar inside the first 10 minutes,and DPMM FC's shoot on sight policy helped pen the visitors into their own half for the rest of the period.

Shahrazen, who is now the team's top-scorer, proved he can provide assist as well when he created the second goal in the 28th minute-his cross from the right was met by a delicate touch from the unmarked Gral to redirect into the goal.

Lacking composure into the goal,Woodlands only troubled Wardun in the 25th minute when he reushed out to close the angles after Shamsurin was stringed a through left from Farizal Basri.

Osman should have grabbed his 5th of the season after the restart, but with only Ahmaduhaq to beat, fired wide of the left post.DPMM lacked the same sort of urgency they played with in the first half,  but Woodlands weren't able to capitalise on their opponents lull in concentration.

They were made to pay for it in the 63rd minute when Gral easily converted a penalty after Helmi was felled inside the box by Edward Tan,and though the hosts created more chances -Shahrazen alone had three-the team were unable to find the net again. 

Vjeran Simunic prefers to look at DPMM FC's first loss of the season as a blessing in disguise.

Second in the league, the Bruneian behemoths face Woodland Wellington in their 10th match of the season tonight-the Hassanal Bolkaih National Stadium playing host to the game.

A win will see the hosts displace Balestier Khalsa- who are one point above them on 21 and have played one more game than the Bruneians-but DPMM's head coach still had his mind on last week's 1-0 defeat to Home Utd.

"We needed to lose a game.You learn more after losing one game than winning 10,"he pondered."Every coach needs to know how his players react after a loss, especially those that have never played in the S-League before."

"Now its very important that we win tomorrow.Tomorrow is my birthday, so we must win-I don't like to be sad on my birthday,"he grinned during yesterday's Press conference in Berakas.

"Woodlands are the first oponents we lost to when we first started,"reminded the Croatian.

"They are a big name...a big team.There is no easy game for DPMM FC...All teams come here to win,"said the coach.

Clemet Teo readily agreed with Simunic."It doesn't matter how far we travel and where we play, the aim is always to win,"insisted Woodlands assistant coach.

"There might be a blacklash after their first loss- plus their players will want to give Simunic a birthday present.

"Playing here boost players morale-they shouldn't be nervous," noted Tan when asked what he thought about playing at the s-League's largest venue.

Woodlands will be without right winger Goh Swee Swee who was shown a red card during their 2-1 loss against harimau Muda,

Australian forward Hussein akil might be out due to injury while Trinidad & Tobago defender Fabien Lewis is currently in the US.

DPMM FC, though have no injury or suspensions concerns so sealing all three points should be on top of their minds tonight. 

The Home Utd curse continue to haunt DPMM FC.

The Brunei teams; eight game unbeaten run came to an end last night after they succumbed to a 1-0 defeat at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

A third minute strike by French forward Frederic Mendy was enogh to give Home Utd another famous win over DPMM lastnight.

DPMM Fc right back Shahrulrizal Rahman failed to clear the ball from midfield which gave th Frenchman space to slot it home with is left foot under the arms of Wardun Yusof.

DPMM FC had a first half to forget-recording only one shot on target in the opening half and it was through a set-piece.Midfielder Azwan Salleh struck a free-kick from outside the box just to see it saved by Home utd goalkeeper Lionel lewis.

DPMM FC were not creating chances and suffered another blow when team's top-scorer Md Shahrazen had to be taken out in the 41st minute.

Shahrazen,who had a fever, was replaced by younger brother Adi Said, who was making his scond appearance for his new club.

DPMM FC came out playing better football in after the interval, but it was the Protectors who had a chance on the hour mark.Mendy almost had a brace, but his shot was easi;y saved by Wardun.

Adi should have equalised in the 3rd minute, but he failed to connect with Jerkovic's cross into the penalty box.

DPMM's best chance came in the 78th minute, but the header by Osamn bashiru was parred away by Lewis.

Substitute, Abu Bakar Mahari had the last chance for DPMMin the 93rd minute. He found space, but skied the ball.

DPMM FC's team manager, Mohd Ali Momin, felt it was just not their night.

"Nothing was going for us and we conceded an early goal from a mistake.We were on the back foot in the half, but I thought we were the better team in the second half," said Ali.

"We pushed forward but couldn't score.We know a loss will come but we didn't expect to lose this game.Just one mistake that led to a goal killed off our confidence,but we have to credit our opponentsas well as they are a good team,"he added.

On the early substitutionin the first half, the manager replied: "We had to take Shahrazen out early because he had a fever and we couldn't push him any further." 

Home Utd will be looking to close the gap between themselves and the Great Eastern-Yeo's S-League leaders DPMM when the two sides meet on Thursday.

DPMM are currently top of the table after picking up 20 points in the opening eight games, while Home, one of the pre-season favourites for the title, are currently five points behind in fifth. 

However, having had a break from their hectic fixture scheduel after receiving a bye in the last round of the league,Protectors coaoch Lee Lim-saeng admits his players are looking refreshed and flying high after last Wednesday's come-from-behind win against Yangon Utd in the AFC Cup.

"We've had two days rest-I watched some players in training yesterday,"Lee told ESPNSTAR."Their condition looked very good, and it appears they have recovered from the busy spells of fixtures".

"The morale of players are high at the moment, especially after beating Yangon in our last game.

"We were losing in the first half but cam back to win in the second- it isn't always easy to produce such a performance."

Home also received a boost on the injury over the past week after it was revealed Rosman Sulaiman,Masrezwan Masturi and Rhysh Roshan Rai are back in training." 

"Rosman,Masrezwan and Roshan rejoined the team yesterday and I was happy to see them back,"Lee revealed.

"I'm not sure if they'll be involved on thursday. I'll have to assess their condition." 

"They will not probably start, but I'm expecting them to feature at some point in the second half,"

And while DPMM remain the only unbeaten team left in the league, Lee has no doubts his charges will be able to defeat them on Thursday, after watching them inflict a first loss on Harimau Muda two weeks ago.

Furthermore, the former Korea Republic international is unsure if the Brunei outfit will be able to sustain their title challenge throughout the whole campaign. 

They are a good side, but Harimau Muda were also unbeaten before they played us, and we beat them 2-1.

"We need to catch up with DPMM and we cannot afford to be overconfident, but we should beat them. Hopefully the players show a good performance." 

"I don't think DPMM can challenge till the end of the season.They will definitely encounter problems at some point of the campaign."

Nonetheless Lee is expecting the league leaders to pose some problems to his side, and believes a team effort is necessary if the Protectors are to keep out DPMM's attacking trio of Shahrazen Said, Osman Basiru and Rodrigo Gral. 

"They(DPMM) are very fit and their foreigners are very strong,"he added."Sometimes one individual cannot handle a particular attacker.

"Thats why I'm looking for us to cover one another and to play together as a team.

"We need to cover any gaps that may appear in defence and if we can do so, I think we can cope with DPMM's attck."

Home will have to keep a keen eye out on Shahrazen in particular, who has already netted five goals this season, including a brace in DPMM's 3-2 win over Tanjong Pagar.

Bruneian side DPMM FC are flyinh high at the top of the league after nine weeks of action, boasting the only remaining unbeaten record with 6 wins and 2 draws.

Standing in their way for their next trip, though, are Home Utd- a name that inspires fear and caution among the oil-rich sultanate.

Just two weeks ago, Home had accounted for Malaysia's harimau Muda, themselves without a loss in the league prior to their trip to Bishan.

After an impressive start that had seen them unbeaten in 11 games back in 2009, including their 1st round of their RHB Cup, the Bruneians were sent crashing down to earth at the Clementi, where Home had been based at the time.

They had come into that game looking to simply collect another routine scalp,but the Protectors, coached bu PN Svaji at the time, had other ideas as N.Morikami and K.Ludoovcikcombined to break their proud record.

That loss had some repercussions for DPMM's title hopes, at least before the records were technically expunged late in the season following FIFA's expulsion to Brunei.

Then of course there was that 1-6 defeat at Bandar seri Begawan, a result many Bruneians would rather forget in a hurry, when three DPMM players were sent-off that time.

The sense of dejavu that haunts DPMM, as they prepare for their third meeting with Home Utd at the Jalan Besar this thursday, was something Vjeran Simunic showed clear concern about as he spoke to the sleague.com.

"We are now in similar situation as we were back in 2009,"said the croat after running his team's training session on Wednesday.

"Back in 2009, every club underestimated us, as we could give surprise after surprise.Now everyone respects us, and all the teams refuse to take us lightly when they play against us."

They survived a near-scare last Friday when Tanjong Pagar pulled two goals back in the 2nd half after falling three goals behind, setting up a frantic finish at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium 

"Tanjong Pagar gave me a big headache when they pulled two goals back, and Adi can give Basiru and his brother Shahrazen competition upfront."

Turning to the attention on his side's bogey team, Simunic reckoned Home will be by far the sternest test of their title's aspirations.

"We are proud to have chance to play againast a team like Home,"he said, eagerly playing up the opposition.

"They have more than 11 excellent players which makes it difficult for every coach to select every game.

"They do not have weak positions and boast 6 foreigners- 2 French, 2 Japanese,John Wilkinson and Chinese immigrant Qiu Li.Tjeir strong players are Sho Jiayi and Idros, and Lionel Lewis is an exceptional goalie.

"But we are not under any pressure.After tomorrow, we might remian unbeaten, which will make this week the same as any other week."

DPMM FC regained their S-League lead last night but they were given a run for their money after Tanjong Pagar scored two goals in the space of three minutes in a nervy 3-2 result.

Shahrazen Said bagged a brace in the win for the hosts- who were 2-0 up inside 22 minutes- to become the team's join top-scorer with Ghanaian striker Osman Bashiru on four goals.DPMM FC earned a three-goal cushion when Hj Md Subhi connected a cross from rosmin, but guilt-edged oportunities after that nearly haunt them.

Tanjong Pagar's hitman Takaya Kawanabe pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 66th minute after referee Sukhbir Singh mysteriously gave the visitors a spot-kick with what looked to be a tug on an opponent's shirt by defender Tales Ricarte dos Santos- who was later given ayellow card fro arguing.

Still stunned DPMM let in another goal when the one-handed Asraf Rashid shot from outside the box, his striker deflecting off dos Santos to leave DPMM even more shell-shocked.A draw for Tanjong Pagar, who are 12th in the league, suddenly seemed likely.

But veteran defender Pg Sallehuddin Pg Damit sas soon in for Helmi Zambin, who started in place for injured striker Rodrigo Gral, and the 39-year old player's calmness in the centre of the park- playing just behind Rosmin and Jerkovic helpned DPMM ensure more possession.

Shahrazen Said's brother,Adi Said also made his debut in the 90th minute.

A win is still a win though, and Vjeran Simunic was glad to have dethroned Balestier Khalsa - who edged wounded giants SAFFC to rise to the summit last Thursday.

"This grass.Its special," smiled the DPMM coach pointing to the field.

"We have never lost in the league playing at home.I don't consider that 6-1 loss to Home Utd in 2009(when the team were down to 8 men)as a defeat.

"The fans has brought us on top and they have kept us on top.We are doing this together," insisted the Croatian after a rain-drenched match.

The team;s togetherness was on display as early as the 6th minute when leftback Sairol Sahri sent in a cross that was headed home by Shahrazen with the team going on to celebrate as one.

Osman was largely responsible for the second goal, racing half the length of the right flank and putting in an inch perfect cross to Shahrazen, who tapped in from close range to make it seem to easy for the soon-to-be league leaders once more.

Kawanabe scared goalkeeper Wardun Yussof with a stinging shot in the 31st minute and Helmi had two chances to add to the lead before the half wore out- the second a candidate for the miss of the season after the 25-year old Bruneian failed to hit the target with the goalie out of his line and the goal at his mercy.

Hj Subhi's second of the campaign had the Tanjong Pagardefence balming each other, though they regrouped well minutes later to keep out a goal-bound shot by Shahrazen.

The striker was denied a hat-trick when shooting inches wide off the left post from inside the box, while midfielder Azwan Salleh's audacious striker from the centre circle nearly punished Shansudin for being out of his line.

The visitors would gain an unlikely lifeline when Singh awarede a sinply illogical penalty and one that must go down as one of the softest fouls in the stadium has ever witnessed.

Many in the stadium were still complaining aloud when Kawanabe netted, but there was no denying the visitors deserved the second goal and one which caught the back-pedalling hosts off-guard.

But instilled with a new-found sense of urgency, DPMM FC would start getting their passing game back in order to see out the win. 

Just like in every good dream, Vjeran Simunic doesn't want to wake up.

DPMM FC's head coach has masterminded the club's ascent to the summit of the league table- ahardly meteoric rise considering the team also briefly led the league in their debut season in 2009 untilthey were forced to pull out due to FIFA's suspension.

With the side hosting Tanjong Pagar tonight,Simunic beleives their history-making run, thy are the only unbeaten side in the league-will be a story that will live long in memory.

"Every Bruneian needs to enjoy this dream and I hope it never ends.Our unbeaten run ...This is something that every Bruneian must be happy about.

Now that Harimau Muda lost their first game to Home Utd last Sunday,we are the only unbeaten side, and we're proud of that.

"Our long unbeaten run is being challenged by every team.They are eager to play in our stadium,which is the best in the S-League.

"We had a horrible schedulewith our first gamesand I want us to end the first round(of 12 games)the best we can.The pressure is definitely on us, but we must not lose our head.

"At the start of the season, the management set us a target of a Top 5 finish...I knew, it was not easy.We could have lost our first four games and confidence wil be low. 

"We are here because of our hard work.We build our confidence game by game,and like I always say,fortune favours the courageous,"added the croatian.

Courage and confidence are two things the club are not short supply of this season,with the side improving every gane and being boosted by the inclusion of five players from the HBT.

Rodrigo will missed the game tonight, which might leave the door open for Adi Said, the 21-year old brother of Shahrazen, who might make his debut for tonight though the face the HBT player awardee has only practised with the team for just over a wwek might work against his favour.

Eleventh in the league with a return of four ppoints from seven games,Tanjong Pagar's sole win of the season came when defender Hafiz Osman netted the only goal against Home Utd.

Hafiz is one of the two defenders the club have brought to partner captain Delwinder Singh at the back, the other being Jonathan Xu.The South Korean forward duo of Lee Joo-Sang and Jang In-Jun are also new faces in the team and DPMM FC will be fully aware of the threat the duo can pose tonight. 

DPMM FC Forward Rodrigo grahl is a doubt for Friday night's home game against Tanjong Pagar Utd.Ali Momin,DPMM team manager told the bulletin.

The brazilian picked up the right to his right thigh initially when DPMM faced Harimau Muda at the Jalan Besar Stadium last month, and has since received injections on a couple of occasions ans seen himself substituted before the end of some games due to the  niggling injury.

"We're not sure how serious the injury is," commented Ali in a phone interview.

"He hasn't been training with us for thw last two days(Sunday and Monday), but he returned to training today(Wednesday)."

"We will see how he is feeling tomorrowbefore we make a decisionfor the game,"he added.

Whilst the injury may be a a tactical blow for head coach Vjeran Simunic, others will benefit from Grahl's misfortune, namely Brunei's top-scorer and HBT player of the tournament,Adi Said,Shahraen's younger brother who only signed last week for DPMM.

"Adi will be on the bench," DPMM's team manager confirmed.

The opportunity for Adi is an exciting prospect for the tens of thousands of DPMM fans,and although it may have come sooner than he had expected, the mishap could play into DPMM's advantage.

His pace, movement and aerial threat present a new dimension to the former S-League champions, and his hunger and work ethic are an added bonus.

If nurtured appropriately, Adi could be very easily established himself as a regular in DPMM FC's starting line-up alongside brother Shahrazen and import Osman basiru. 

DPMM FC's slim 1-0 win over the Court Young Lions was extra special for Vjeran Simunic.

The team's head coah was resigned to a goalless draw against the league's bottom side until Azwan Salleh's stunning free-kick deep into injury time handed the hosts all three points to cement their status at the top of the league."I told my players to give me a present because I'm alone for Easter- my family is in Croatia - so now I'm very happy,"he smiled.

I knew their goalkeeper is small so we trained for free-kicks...I told Azwan to shoot on target if he had a chance and it was a very good free-kick.

"I think we showed that we deserved to win and the boys deserve to be on top.

"Now we're a little tired mentally because we did not expect to be fighting for the top spot at the start of the season.

"Before we were the hunters- now we're the hunted!

"Its easier to go to the top than to stay at the top.Now the whole league wants to push us down and they expect us to lose.But destiny is in our hands," he added after Friday's win.

The Croatian refused to balem his players for failing to break down their opponents earlier, instead insisting that the Young Lions - the Singapore Under-23 team - were punching well above their weight.

After a lacklustre first half,Simunic told his players to close the Young Lions down better in the second period and imagine that "they were playing against a top team like SAFFC or Tampines."

To the casula observer, the tie hardly looked like one between the league leaders against the basement dwellers- though Simunic had always maintained the Young Lions were capable of pulling an upset.

And indeed, DPMM fans will remember how their side needed another last minute goal against the young Lions, this time by Abu Bakar Mahari, to salvage a 1-1 draw in 2009.

"We've been unbeaten here for a long time, but I knew one day we would lose...Maybe tonight, maybe the next night,"said Simunic.

"The Young Lions are a good team and now I think my players trustme when I warned them it would be a tough game.

"I was worried about wingers Sherif El-Masri,Benjamin Kristofferson and Jonathan Toto.They are very good players  and they will have a very good career with the Young Lions-especially El-Masri who is in the canadian Olympic team,"he added.

Though he refused to blame Shazwan for the goal,Young Lions handler Robin chitrakar felt his team should have gone away with a share of points.

But despite being rooted at the bottom of the league, the former Singapore international believes that his players have a promising future ahead of them.

"Its painful for us ... Definitely disappointing,"he said."The boys performed well and were organised,but they didn't take their chances.Coming here is not easy, but we played better than I expected.

"We lose like this everytime,but I don' t think its because we're not mentally strong.The boys have prepared well and we're the youngest team in the leagueso we definitely need team.

"The referee didn't give the foul which led to the free-kick, it was the linesman who called it.But those things happen in football,you never know what can happen until the final whistle,"he added.

DPMM FC's next game is against Tanjong Pagar United at the Hassanal Bolkaih National Stadium on Friday. 

Azwan Salleh's magical injury-time free-kick sealed a dramatic 1-0 win for DPMM FC over the Young Lions last night, the team fifth win in the league season consolidating their position at the top of the table.

Basement dewellers with only a point to their name, Singapore's national Under-23 team looked destined for a deserved draw at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stdium after frustrating the league leaders with their determined defending.

But the linesman spotted a foul in the dying seconds aup stepped Azwan, whose striker means DPMM FC now enjoy a two point lead over Balestier Khalsa.

The entire Young Lions team returned inside the box for the set-piece, but it was all for nothing as Azwan's 30-yard free-kick gloriously sailed over the crows and past goalkeeper Shazwan Bakhari's right, with the stadium instantly erupting to celebrate Azwan's first goal of the season.

DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic likened Azwan to Brazilian defender Roberto carlos after the match, and though the midfielder didin't mention anything about the left-legged legend's powerful shots, he admitted he did enjoy a bit of the limelight.

"It was the last minute so I wanted to be the hero," grinned the 24-year old, whose team mates hosted him onto their shoulders after the final whistle.

"I didn't save the game - the whole team did," said Azwan, adding that he ment for it to be a a cross into the box.

Saving the game was on top of every fan's minds last night as the goalless stalemate- which would be the first time the team failed to find the net all season - was bound to feel like a defeat than a draw.

The team were thwarted time and again by an organised Young Lions back-line,but their biggest problem - especially in the half- was creating chances.

DPMM just couldn't get their passing game going and a dull and dreary opener saw chances few and far between.

The Young Lions attacking trio of left winger,Sherif El-Masri, right winger Benjamin Kristofferson and striker Jonathan Toto proved to be a threat throughout the tie, with El-Masri in particular menace with his dazzling dribbling. 

DPMM FC's Ghanaian striker Osman Bashiru looked lively in the opening minutes, but he would suffer from a lack of service with the half best chances falling to Hj Subhi Abdilah Bakir, whose header from an Azwan cross was off the mark.

DPMM FC centreback Shahrulrizal Rahman had two headers which missed their mark in the second half and Basiru watched his header bounce back into play after hitting the bar.

Faris Ramli should have given the visitors the lead in the 72nd minute but didn't connect on an El-Masri cross, amiss which would come back to haunt them with Azwan's howler. 

DPMM FC believed the young Lions still have a lot of roar in them despite being tied to the foot of the league.

Table-toppers DPMM face the Singapore Under-23 side at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium tonight in what DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic has billed as a battle between two nations.

And with Singapore head coach - and Simunic's close friend- Raddy avramovic overseeing the team's last 3 games and in town for tonights tie, the Croatian knows the Young Lions means business.

"For me, Singapore is the best team in the region,"insisted Simunic during yesterday's pre-match conference.

"The YoungLions are a good teamand with canadian Sherif El-Masri- a former Home Utd player- in the side they are even better.

"We want to continue our best performances and ...I think we can pick up a good result.

"Eight teams can be champions now.And the Lions have played two games less, so I know the battle for the top 5 spots will be very tight,"he added.

Young Lions head coach Robin Chitrakar, who was also in charge during the HBT, didn't feel his team deserved to be stuck to the bottom of the leagueand was adamant his team will be fighting for the three points tonight.

"We're a young team but we're not push-overs,"he declared."Its possible to beat them but it will be very tough...They have a good coach, a well organised teamand some very talented players, its going to be an uphill task."

DPMM FC have a full force to choose from though the Young Lions will be without injured striker Navin Vanu and midfielder iqbal Hamid Hussain.

DPMM FC's newest batch of players know they face an uphill task to break into the first team.

Five players who shone during the Hasaanal Bolkiah's Trophy campaign officially signed for DPMM FC yesterday, which ebded with a 2-0 win over Indonesia in the final.

There was talk striker Adi Said would join DPMM FC after winning the best player award at the HBT and the 21-year old was relieved he could put an end to the rumours and team up with his brother Shahrazen.

"I'm really happy to finally be a DPMM FC player,"said the former Majra player.

"I can improve my game playing here.Its going to be hard to adjust and get some playing time...But I'm sure I can do it if I try my best.

"I've trained with the team for three times so far and I've enjoyed it,"he added.

Md Hendra Azam as a DPMM FC player before even before the HBT started but he was no illusion that he would be guaranteed any playing time.

"It'll take some time to break into the first team though .. Maybe two years,"said the 23 year old midfielder.

"Bit if I have the chance I will definitely take it."

"I'm happy because I can further my football career and I hope the fans can give the same support they gave during the HBT,"said Hendra.

The HBT team captain, Md Najob Tarif was relishing the opportunity to link up with some familiar faces.

"This is the best club in Brunei,"gushed the midfielder.

"I have played with some of the players before, like Sairol Sahri in NBT,Hj Subhi in AM Gunners and Helmi Zambin and Azwan Salleh during the 2006 Sukma Games.

"Even before I was offered to play for DPMM FC, but now I feel ready.

"Even if I don't play,I'm not goig to let that affect my confidence. Instead it'll make me work harder,"added the 24-year old policeman.

Defender Reduan Petra also believed it wouldn't be easy to break into the first 11.

"I want to try to get some playing time and improve myself by playing overseas," said the 24-year old.

"I'm new to the club so it would take some time though,"added the former Indera player.

Goalie Md Fakhrul Zulhazmi might have the easiest job when compared with the other four- he only has to fight with Wardun Yusof for a jersey.

"Its great to be playing for this club becuase we represent Brunei,"he added.

DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic want to give his new playersant false hopes, and with the club leadingthe 13-team table, its easy to see why he doesn't want to change the winning formula.

"I'm happy with the first eleven now,"said the Croatian.

"Even if I have Messi, where would I put him? How can I change the team?I'm an honest coach.

"But I'm very happy with the challenge they will be giving the other players.

"The team has been together for six months so far this current batch.I'd think they need month to prepare with us.

"All the players can each play five or six positions so its veey good for the team,"he added.

DPMM FC take on basement dwellers Young Lions at the hassanal Bolkaih National Stadium in Berakas on Friday. 

Fresh from moving second in the league, Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee has warned DPMM FC to start watching their backs.

The Young Tigers recorded a hard-fought win over SAF FC at the Choa Chu Kang on Sunday, a result which saw them pull level with DPMM at the top of the table, although they are currently second on number of goals.

The fact that both sides are currently top of the league is even more interesting beacuse of the heated clash between the two just two weeks ago, which ended in a verbal spat between Ong and DPMM counterpart Vjeran Simunic.

And Ong was in no mood to hold back after Sunday's game when asked if he has set sights on overtaking the Bruneian opponents.

"We'll be catching them(DPMM)all the way,"Ong declared."Don't worry, we'll be catching them for sure."

The former Malaysia international was also bemused by Simunic's comments his side would be able to win the league even without their foreign signings.

"He(Simunic) has been saying that even without the foreigners he can still win the league," Ong added.

"But he's still using four of them, and I'm still using my 21-year olds."

One of the stars for Harimau Muda on Sunday was Wan Zack haikal, who had previously subject to criticism from his coach after a disappointing display against Courts Young Lions last week.

However he was back to his best against the Warriors, scoring the opener after a fantastic solo run, before laying on the winner for Ahmed Hazwan with an intelligent pass.

And Ond admits he was pleased with the way his young star bounced back from criticism.

"They are boys and will make mistakes,"Ong added. "But at the same time they must learn.

"Today(Sunday), he came back with one of his usual performances, which is wahat he want."

Despite having to do without captain Mahali Jasli and regular starters Affize Faisal and Irfan Fazali,Ong's charges still managed to more than match their more experienced opponents, something he believes bodes well for the team's prospects.

"Affize, Mahali and Irfan were all out injured," Ong explained.

"When somebody is injured another player gets the chance to play, and when they get their chance they prove their worth.

"Its a good sign for our back-up players."

The Young Tigers will face another test of their credentials on Sunday when they travel to the Bishan Stadium to face last season's runners-up Home United. 

Vjeran Simunic is keeping his feet firmly rooted to the ground despite DPMM FC heading the S-League after a lengthy absence.

DPMM FC have surprosed the league with their stunning start to the season, their four wins and two draws from six games seeing them top the 13-team table.

The suspension in 2009 has since been lifted and Simunis admitted his team's desire to prove a point, that they can once again be a force to be reckoned with is the main reason they kead the table.

"We must be happy.We have been playing fantastic but we can always be better. We know our defects,"insisted the coach yesterday.

"People are jealous.I understand.But we must be arrogant.We have a lot of space to develop, lot of space to push forward.

"But we are always prepared to lose.After the first round in June, I can tell you exactly where we are.

"Its nice to be on top now.We ahave shown we are capable of challenging any team around us and its something that has made Bruneins ahppy - and the players deserve this.

"We are hungry to show what we did three years ago was not a one-time thing.We can be consistent.

"FIFA's decision to susoend Brunei was like an earthquake for us.I saw some players cry.

"We thought that if we were given the chance to compete again ...God has helped us now, now look wahat has happened.

"We have strong faith, love and friendship with this club.

"The whole club, from the top to the bottom, we work together as one machine," beamed the Croatian.

Simunic, who has been at the helm of 25 clubs in a career which started in 1993, said he was always worried how the team would fare after such a long break in competitive football.

The team have improved from game to game, and the lack of focus which led to Tampines coming back to steal a late 2-2 draw looks to be a thing of the past.

Apart from their good chemistry abd composition, DPMM FC's fitness has also contributed to their current success.

And the fact they have enjoyed this rich vein of form without eight players who have failed their beep tests - the S-League's mandatory test of cardiovascular fitness - makes the feat all the more impressive.

"When we started rge season I was worried how we would perform after three years out ... How we could be on the same road as other teams that had not had a break.

"If you have a Ferrari in a garage for three years, how can it drive well?

"I knew with the horrible schedule we had, we could have very well lost all three games and it would have been bad for our confidence.

"This is all much better than we expected. It means we have worked hard to prepare for the league.

"My players never complain Going from the airport straight to training, or training twice a day.They never complain.This shows their professionalism,"he added.

DPMM FC's next game is on Friday against basement dwellers YoungLions at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas. 

It is a case of onwards and upwards for Balestier Khalsa coach Darren Stewart ahaead of tonight's Great-Eastern-YEO's S.League match with DPMM FC.

Balestier enter the eagerly anticipated tussle with Vjeran Simunic's charges determined to get themselves back on track after last weekend's surprise defeat of Tanjong Pagar.

Sunday's narrow 1-0 loss courtesy of Takaya Kawanabe's 67th minute penalty, brought an abrupt end to the Tigers impressive winning streak, and saw table-topping DPMM extend the gap between themselves and Balestier- who are still riding high in fourth spot-to six points.

Despite the setback,Stewart has declared that the Tanjong blip is now well and truly behind his side, as they look to round off the first half of a so far successful league campaign in style.

"What can we do about the Tanjong result?" the amiable Australian said after a lively Wednesday evening training session.

"I told the boys that the longer we moan and think about dropping of points, the harder it would be to get ourselves up for the next game.Because of that it really hasn't taken much to get them up for the DPMM game.

"Balestier long-term injury victims Goran Subara and Ridwan Jamil will miss out against DPMM, as will Ruhaizad Ismaildue to suspension.

However,Tengku Mushadad is yet-due to play through the pain barrier to a potentila operation on his left knee during the mid-season break, while balestier also look to be boosted by the return of liverwire forward Zulkiffli Hassim after a lengthy five-game ban.

"Zulkiffli was flying before he got the suspension," Stewart said of Balestier's number 12 whose last game was in last April.

"He has trained exceedingly hard during the long time he has been absent.He canadd enthusiasm and pace to the team and there's no doubt thatbhe is on form.In fact of the four years,I have known Zulkiffli.I have never known him more confident that he is at the moment."

DPMM arrive in singapore having only lost once this season and Stewart,while playing down any notion that Thursday's fixture could go some way towards deciding the destiny of the 2012 S-League title, is acutely aware of the threat DPMM will pose the Toa Payoh Stadium outfit.

"DPMM are a hardworking team, they are physical and they have good imports, especially Shahrazen Said who is playing very well," the former gombak Utd coach explained.

"They are top of the league, and although that is partly to do with the tremendous home advantage they have in Brunei,they are a tough team to beat anywhere.

"However I think it is far too early to judge whether or not the result will have abearing on who wins the S-League because there is so long to go.Instead, I prefer to look as it as a gauge of how well we can bounce back from our last game," Stewart concluded. 

DPMM FC kept their unbeaten record last night when they beay Gombak 3-0 to move back on top.

Gombak started out the better team and dominated the first 20 minutes of the game.DPMM FCwere struggling to rein the bulls, but soon after found their rhythm to hit back.

The Bruneians started to create chances and eventually took the lead after playing more organised football at both ends of the field DPMM took the lead through an own goal by Walid Lounis, who headed the ball into his own net from a Hj Subhi cross.

Striker Shahrazen Said doubled DPMM FC's lead in the 37th minute after connecting on  a cross by Brazilian import Rodrigo Gral.Osman Bashru also get on the scoresheet after a good solo effort in the 50th minute.

The Ghanaian hitman dribbled into the box from the right and unleashed a powerful shot to be Zaiful Nizam in between the Gombak sticks to make it 3-0.

The win was even sweeter as both head coach Vjeran Simunic and goalie coach Zainol Ariffin were imposing one match bans.

Ilham Jais took over the duties of handling the team and was proud of the boys performance.

"Eveyone in the team did a good job.The players gave more than a 100%out there in the game.I have to credit them for the win,"said Ilham.

"Overall, we are happy with all three points and it is a bonus that we kept a clean sheet in the vicotry,"he added. 

"Everything went well for us and  I thought we played fantastic football at both the offensive and defensive ends,"continued Ilham.

DPMM made two subs in last nights game with midfielder Sairol Sahri replaced by Helmi Zambin in the 69th minute while Ak Fakhrazzi taking over the duties from Shahrazen in the 89th minute.

"I'm happy with the changes .They adapted to the game quickly and even managed to create few chances,"said Ilham.

"Now we are already concentrating on our next game against the Young Lions,"he concluded. 

DPMM FC's unbeaten S-League run topped Shahrazen Said's mind ahed of tonight's game against Gomabk United tonight.

The unbeaten record is one they share with Harimau Muda and both sides dodged determination to maintain the status quo went a long way in explaining the feisty draw when they met last Thursday, when DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic was sent to the stands - and hence wil not bo on the bench for tonight's match.

Gombak, whose only win came on March 9 when they beat Tanjong Pagar 3-0, head into tonight's game as underdogs -though the tie in Jurong West Stadium, might have more to it than meets the eye.

"We have to do the same thing we've been doing in the previous matches ... Give more than 100% to get the three points and hold our unbeaten record," said the striker yesterday.

"Right now,I'm not sure which Gombak players will be a threat...Though we must focus on the five imports," added Shahrazen, who has netted twice in the team's five games so far.

A high scoring draw will also be enough for the visitors to leave the Jurong West Stadium at the summit of the league,and a lot of that will depend on how well Simunic's forward three can link up.

Shahrazen has been playing well with Bashru, whose surging runs down the flanks-usually on the left- almost always end up with a foul on the ghanaian.

The team's top-scorer with 3 goals, Basiru will know that he will be a marked man tonight.

Shahrazen is no push-over either, finishing joint top-scorer during the MSL 2006/7 season with 21 goals to prove his status as one of the region's top marksmen.

Though DPMM have netted 11 times this season, the attacking trio of basiru,Shahrazen and Gral have hardly set the league on fire.

It is easier said than done though, considering Basiru and Gral are in their first seasons with the club.

Gral has been getting some mixed reviews since joining,but the former Jubilo iwata man has proved worth with timely contributions.

The Brazilian nettedDPMM's only goal during the fiery 1-1 draw against Harimau Muda,opening his scoring accounts for the club by scoring the winer in the 2-1 result over then league leaders Albirex Niigata on Marcgh 11 in another crucial game. 

National striker Adi Said brought Brunei great joy when he inspired the country to its first ever Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy title on March 9.

Scoring in each of the five matches he played in- including to second goal to help Brunei beat the Indonesians 2-0, it is little surprise that adi has now become the hot preperty in Brunei football.

Rumour has it that Brunei's only professional club DPMM also ceveted his services.

Despite this Adi claimed he was on his way to DPMM FC.

"It has always been my dream to play for DPMM FC...and that dream has finally come true,"he told the Brunei Times during in an interview on Monday night.

The 22-year old striker then added,"I played my last game for Majra on Sunday becuase my name is registered with the NFABD but I have already handed my passport and ID to DPMM FC to register at S-League."

"I took my first beep test for DPMM FC this month and I am waiting for the second test."

"I was told that DPMM can still sign four players...,"said Adi whose elder brother Shahrazen is also playing for DPMM FC.

There was a meeting between DPMM Fc team manager Ali Momin and a representative of Majra regarding my future this afternoon," said Adi.

"The final decision is mine...both Majra and DPMM will respect any decision.And I choose to play for DPMM FC.

"It has always been my dream to play for DPMM FC.In fact when my brother first went for tryout with DPMM FC.I was with him.He was picked to play, and I wasn't.

"My parents and my brothers, wspecially Shahrazen are very supportive of may career.I hope everything will go well and I get to play alongside my brother in the S-League," said Ad.

"This is abig opportunity for me.I've spoken to Majra officials and they are ok with it.This is for the best.I want to improve myself as a footbaler and move on to the next level,"he added. 

DPMM FC cam move to second in the Singapore League if they beat Tanjong Pagar at the Clementi Stadium in Singapore tonight.

"We have no choice ...We have to win this game,"Pg Waslimin, the DPMM club manager said to the Brunei Times yesterday.

"We can't look down on Tanjong Pagar despite them being lower on the table than us," warned the club manager who must have remembered how Tanjong Pagar set up a nervy finish by coming back from 3-0 to s-2 during the last meeting back in April.

The team have been bolsteres by the return of midfield Azwan Salleh who missed the 3-1 win over the Young Lions on Sep 13 due to knee injury.

Right back Shahrulrizal Abd Rahman, however, will play no part as he is serving the second of his two-match ban picked up during the 1-1 draw against Gombak on Aug 31. 

Gombak FC delivered some good news for DPMM FC and the rest of the trailing bunch after holding leaders and defending champions Tampines Rovers 1-1 draw last night. 

Though he has yet to fully capture the hearts of DPMM FC fans, Rodrigo Gral deserves all the credit coming his way.

One of the three new imports roped in this season, the experienced Brazilian striker's 58th minute goal helped DPMM FCto a 1-1 draw against Harimau Muda in Singapore on Thursday night, a draw which was enough to propel the Brunei team from second to first in the S-League.

Gral used to ply his trade at Japanese heavyweights Jubilo Iwata and Yokohama F.Marinos and his strike- which was the first goal Harimau Muda have conceded all season- has gone a long way in silencing his critics.

"Gral's goal was important," admitted DPMM FC club manager Pg Waslimin last night.

"It was really beautiful-perhaps even goal of the week,"he added.

Latching to a lobbed pass from Ghanaian striker Osman Basiru, the 35-year old gral beat his marker and rifled a half-volley past a stunned Md Izham Termizi.

An increasingly physocal match would see the DPMM FC players at the wrong end of some crunching tackles, and with coach Vjeran Simunic and goalkeeper coach Zainol Ariffin Jumat unhappy with the lack of cards,duo ended the game watching from the stands.

DPMM FC take on Gombak Utd at the Jurong West stadium and Pg Waslimin could not say if Simunic would be on the bench.

"We're not sure yet-we're still waiting for the match report,"said Pg Waslimin."Harimau Muda are a young team with a high levelof fitness and we had a number of players injured in the second half.

"As I'm sure you saw on television,there were a lot of fouls committed on our players...Osman,Rosmin.

"The coaching staff wasn't too happy with that." 

DPMM FC moved back to the top of the league despite being held to a 1-1 draw against a gutsy Harimau Muda last night.

Brazilian striker Rodrigo Gral got DPMM FC in front with a powerful ahot in the 58th minute, but influential midfielder Gary Robbat would draw level courtesy of a screamer from outside the box nine munutes later, with reising tensions in the dying minutes seeing DPMM FC haed coach Simunic send to the stands.

The Young Tigers ended the game with a ferocious assault, but DPMM did well to keep their opponents at bay at the Jalan Besar Stadium - the draw maintaining both teams undefeated record and keeping Harimau Muda at fifth.

The result pushes DPMM FC to topof the league, tied on points with Balestier Khalsa but enjoying a better goal difference.

DPMM FC started brightly last night with a header from Hj Subhi in the third minute.Ghanaian striker Osman bashirucreated the game's best chance when he stole the ball off Wan Zack Haikal in the 21st minute, though he was unable to capitalise.

Through on goal, he raced down the left flank but took too long on the ball, with Wan Zack making amends by booting it out for a corner.

Centre back Md Fadli Sas prevented the tireless Basiru from shooting during another one-on-one against goalkeeper Tarmizi in the 36th minute and it was evident the Malaysians were suffering from a lack of cohesion.

DPMM goalkeeper Wardun Yusof had to be alertas ever though,as he will attest from the stinging dipping freekick which Wan Zack fired deep in the first half.

The Bruneians were outsmarting and outmuscling the Malaysians in the middle of the park,and though Robbat pit in a tireless performance and tried to find space for his teammates,there was only so much he could do.

The skillful Wan Zack proved the be a tricky customer down the flank with his pace and dribbling, but Sairol Sahri had the danger-man covered.

Basiru,who leads the team scored three goals so far,didn't get on the mark last night but provided a vital assist for Gral, who has now scored 2 goals in five matches.

The Ghanaian's though ball to the Brazilain was met by an emphatic finish which left Md Izzam rooted to the spot, and though the 35-year old had a chance to make it 2-0, he was a bit too slow to react to a pass from Hj Subhi inside the box- which Sairol heading wide off a corner seconds later.

Ong Kim Swee had seen enough and the harimau Muda handler sent in striker Thamil Arasu and midfielder Muhamad Nazmi to shake things up in the 64th minute.

The changes bore fruit soon enough.

Robbat evaded his marker outside the box and unleashed a furious cannon ball which Wardun initially got his gloves on but found too hot to handle, with Malaysians firmly on the front foot in the minutes to come.

Arasu had an attempt which was inches wide off right post in the 71st minute and a md fadli tackle on Bashire three minutes later had the DPMM bench up in arms - though the centre-back did get the ball before felling the striker.

DPMM FC centreback Tales Ricarte's mistimed tackle on Arasu should have resulted in an 88th minute penslty and pilling on the pressure.D.Saarvindran was unlucky to see his long range bounce off the left post in the 88th minute.

The midfielder also had a tame attempt gobbled up Wardun in injury time, during which dos Santos's header off Ivan Jerkovic's free-kick was easily saved. 

DPMM FC are looking to contimue their impressive start in the league as they take on Harimau Muda today at the Jalan Besar Stadiumin Singapore.

The club are in a confident mood after coming off a 4-1 rout of basement dwellers Geylang Utd last Friday at home.

That victory allowed them to move to the summit before Balestier Khalsa left it till late to score a 2-0 win over Woodlands last Sunday.

It will be an interesting affair between these two as both are the newcomersa nd both have yet to lose a match.

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic knows that their match against the Malaysians is a tough test and the Croatian is looking forward to the challenge.

"It is like an international matchgoing up against another country.They are a top team playing together for four years or so and under professional coaches.They are an excellent team but we must reach our level of our game,"said Simunic in an interview with the Brunei times yesterday.

We have had a good run in the four matches and we need to continue to do so.From there I believe we can have a good fight.Chances are quite eqial," Simunic added.

"We had some problems with injuries with our match against Albirexbut everyone has recovered.Everyone is looking forward for a chance to play against a big team," said the Croatian.

Asked whether they are confident of picking uo all three points,Simunic replied: "We're not thinking about the points at the moment but more towards the way we play.We'll take it from game-to-game  and we need to continuously perform because it is a long season," he said.

We'll be happy with points and at this moment there are at least eight teams that can finish top five," he added.

"We expect a full stadium and hopfully we can have a good game after having some nice memories from before," said Simunic.

DPMM FC midfielder Ivan Jerkovic feels that it is important that the team keepstheir focus throughout the match against the Malaysian side.

"I'm scares about the small games.Playing in the big games, the concentration is always there," said Jerkovic.

"See during the second half against Geylang ...  we were 2-0 up but they scored a goal and we could easily made another mistake and let them equalise," he added.

"Against Harimau Mudawe must play our gamelike usual.They are a young team and they can run so we must concentrate," the Croatian continued.

"We know there are no easy gsmes in the S-League.If we play our gamewe can win.We must concentrate from our first minute,"he addded.

Left winger Sairol Sahari, who has been converted to left back this season,also expects a tough outing against the Malaysian side.

"Harimau Muda as we know are a young team and have good ability.Some of them trained at Slovakia and will represent represent for the Olympics," said Sairol.

"We know it'll be tough but we'll do our best,"he added.

The match kicks off at 7.45 pm and will be telecast live on Astro 801 channel. 

There's a healthy buzz going around DPMM FC and its obvious why.

They might be second but DPMM FC have a game in hand over their next rivals - Balestier, third placed Albirex and fourth placed Home Utd are all on five games.

Sure, they have played only four games, but few would have predicted that DPMM FCwould reach such lofty heights - after all they were making their return to the S-League after a two-year layoff and had only one real friendly match prior to their campaign opener on Feb 12.

Their encouraging start marks them out as genuine title contenders and Ivan jerkovic feels the bond between the players is a big reason they have been successful thus far.

We are like family-thats the truth," said the Croatian midfielder who used to play for SAF FC before joining DPMM FC in February.

"When I play in Singapore I didn't see that, but when I came back to DPMMit was the same as in 2009.The foreign players and the locals are friends- in Singapore it is not like that.

"One for all and all for one - that's DPMM FC's point"

"It was great to top the league and it was an important game for us becuase Geylang has lost their first three games and we knew they were coming to Brunei to try to get a draw or a win. 

"Topping the league shows that anything is possible ... we can beat any club in Singapore,"he added.

Could they win the title?Only if they fight until the end of the season, he replied.

"The most important thing is to take it game by game," he insisted.

"All of us wants to be champions- that's every footballers dream," said Jerkovic.

Left-winger Sairol Sahri - who has been leftback this season - agreed that the team were like family and said the team did well to overcome a gruelling schedule plua the introduction of three new imports.

"I didn't expect to be top because the first three games were very tough - but we did it because of our teamwork," he said.

"Of course, at first it was hard playing with the new players becuase we didn't know their style bus after a while we got to learn how each other played.

"The national Under-21 team's Hassanal Bolkaih trophy victory has also motivated us,"he added.

DPMM FC's team manager Ali Hj Momin also pointed out that one of the reasons the tean has enjoyed early-season success was because the side had been together for many years.

"They are like family, even outside the field,"noted Ali.

They're a lot of reasons we've been so successful this eason, and, of course hard work is the most important..We also play with heart!

"Topping the league was a goo dsign for us and we can say that football in Brunei has not died despite not playing internationally for two years (during which FIFA suspended the Sultanate)." 

There was no doubt in V.Kanan's mind that Geylang were second best on Friday night.

Suffering their straight fourth loss of the league campaign by falling 4-1 to DPMM FC, the geylang coach admitted his men didn't give DPMM enough of a fight.

The result meant DPMM now sit preety atop the league table with 10 points from 4 games - and enjoy a game in hand over nearest rivals Home United.

"We conceded some silly goals," sighed Kanan, who was in charge of the team for the first time. 

"Nevertheless,DPMM FC played some good football and they deserved to win.

"The boys worked very hard and I thought at 2-1 we could have come back.

"But I'm proud of my team -this was their best performance in our 4 games," declared Kanan, who used to coach the club's prime leaguefor 10 years and led them to the title last season.

After a promising start Shahrazen Said got DPMM FC on the scoresheet in the 23rd minute with Ghanaian striker Osman bashiru netted his third goal of the season 12 minutes later.

The team had their foot of the gas in the second half and were punished for it when Hj Subhi lst the ball to Michael King inside the box.His last ditch tackle felled the former Burnley player and resulted in a penalty kick - whicj Josef Kaplan cooly slotted home.

The visitors would enjoy more possession after the goal and did well to create space on the flanks, setting up a nervy few minutes for the home fans.

But Tales Ricarte dos Santos connect on a superb freekick from croatian midfielder Ivan Jerkovic on the 78th minute, and they got a goal on the 88th minute when substitute Helmi Zambin's sersistence led to him heading home his own rebound after a scything cross-field pass from Azwan Salleh.

Brazilian striker Rodrigo Grahl had another quiet game for DPMM FC, which probably accounted for his substitution with Helmi six minutes from time.

Vjeran Simunic though, said there was more to it than met the eye.

"Grahl played with injections today (Friday)so I must say he is very prefessional - though it is risky,"said the DPMM FC coach.

"Helmi had an excellent goal - they were all excellent.

"My players gave 200%for this win.But Geylang, really worked hardtoo and I'm not sure how they last their last game 7-1," said the Croatian, adding that the team did not six changes from the side that self-destructed against Home Utd.

As confident as Simunic always is, he didn't want to answer questions on whether the team could maintain their good performance.He also didn't feel it was a problem that goalkeeper Wardun Yusof had not kept a clean sheet in any of their four games.

"Again, I'm happy with how we played just four days after our last game,"he said

"We survived a horrble schedule...If we got three draws from it I'd also be excited.

"We always fight from game to game.Even if we always win 3-1, 3-1 ... We'd still be champions.

"I'm very sorry for Wardun because this was a game h ecould have kept a clean sheet.

"But you must know, this is football,not a shopping centre." 

DPMM FC moved to the summit of the S-League after a seemingly convincing 4-1 win over Geylang last night, jumping five places and becoming the first team to break the 10-point barrier.

Though on paper the match agaunst the basement dwellers wasn't meant to trouble the team, it proved to be a different story - especially the visitors promisingly powered forward after pulling back to 2-1 with a Josef Kaplan penalty on the hour mark.

But weathering the storm, DPMM wouls add to their advantage with season-first goals from centreback Tales Ricarte dos Santos and substitute Helmi Zambin, the latter's 90th minute ensuring all three points at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Their third win in four games, the ever-confident Vjeran Simunic was in a buoyant mood after the match.

"Absolutely! I feel we deserve to be on top," said the DPMM coach.

"Its like in Formula 1-  we are now in pole position.I'm happy that we could one day be leading the league.

"The game is nothing surprising for me.I said it would be dangerous at 2-0 and a little mistake made it 2-1 ... But thats football," shrugged the Croatian.

With a 2-0 lead at the break, complacency started to creep into DPMM FC's game in the second half - with the "little mistake" coming when dos Santoas gave the ball away to an onrushing Michael King and brought the former Burnlwy player down on the box.

The Eagles would soar forward bolstered by the well-taken penalty, but King's 71st shot with his back to goal was the best opportunity they would get to even the scores - with Geylang failing to trouble goalkeeper Wardun Yusof for the rest of the match.

Sharazen opened the scoring in the 23rd minute but Ghanaian striker Osman Bashiru did all the hard work.

Dribbling past three defenders on the left, he smashed a shot that bounced off the left post but was met with a half-volley from Shahrazen - the fan favouritepicking up his second goal of the season.

Capping off an encouraging combination on attacks from all three of DPMM forwards, the free-flowing second goalwas bound to pun on a smile to Simunic's face - where once again the team were able to exploit space on the left.

Shahrazen evaded his markers and squared the ball to Brazilain Rodrigo Grahl - who wisely laid it off to Bashiru.

Riffling the ball to the top of the net,his third in four games has now made him the team's top-scorer.

"I was confident I would score," grinned Basiru after the game."I think I have been getting better every game...I need to help the club," added the 23-year old hitman.

Dos Santos brought the team back from their second halfwhen the Brazilian headed home a pin-point freekick from Croatian midfielder Ivan Jerkovic in the 78th minute, and Simunic's decision to replace the ineffective Grahl for Helmi in the 84th minute paid off when the dimunitive 25-year old headed in his own rebound after searching a cross-field pass from midfielder Azwan Salleh. 

DPMM FC will be taking nothing for granted in tonight's game against geylang Utd, despite the latter's 7-1 thumping at the hands of Home Utd, after DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic labelled the Bedok-based club as 'dark horses'

Speaking during a press conference yesterday the DPMM FC head coach yesterday was wary of the threat opposed by Geylang, despite their poor start to the league.

"I respect Geylang very very much.Geylang is a team who won many many trophies.I have watched their last three games,and they have a very nice team.I don't understand what has happened inside their dressing roon."

Simunic was quick to highlight the situation DPMM find themselves in,having been absent from football scene for almost three years.Whilst DPMM's start to the league has been impressive, the head coach still feels there is room for improvement.

"We are in a special situation.We missed three years of football,so we can still improve ourselves.We will take it game by game,and we, as coaches are very happy.With each gamewe improve our game by 5% or 10%, so I hope my team will play better again this game."

V.Kana, the head coach of Geylang, returned the praise Simunic had for his team, with both coaches sharing an apparent mutual respect for one another,but was quick to dismiss any doubts his team had.

"As you know, we had lost our last three games,and now we are meeting DPMM FC, who are quite a good side.Their last three games, they have beat tough opponents SAF FC and Albirex.Playing them at their home stadium, infront of a big crowd,it will not be easy for us,nevertheless I think we won't give it to them easy.We will work hard and do our best to get something from Brunei,"said the Geylang coach.

When the possibility of DPMM leapfrogging Hougang United,Balestier Khalsa and Albirex to topthe S-League standingswith a win over Geylang tonightwas brought to his attention, Simunic refused to get drawn in on the matter.

"What is more important than points is that my team play a good game.Points never come without hard work and determination, so any resukt I can accept and respect, if my players play as they did against Albirex,or maybe  better."The DPMM coach was confident in the team he has and the football they play, with no significant injuriesahead of tonight's game.

"I cannit say DPMM FCwill eb champions, but of course I am not afraid of any teams in this area.My DPMM team can play against any team but also can lose against any team."

Simunic was not satisfied with the turnout last Sunday's encounter against Albirex, adn expecting a better turnout tonight, when DPMM lockhorns against Geylang.

"Last time I told you I am not happy with 10,000, because it is very team for this team because this team deserves more.How can 30,000 watching kids play when big teams like Geylang or Albirex come to Brunei.Tomorrow there must be 20,000 people." exclaimed Simunic. 

Vjeran Simunic hailed Rodrigo Grahl's work ethic after the Brazilian scored the winner for DPMM FC in the league match against Albirex Niigata last night.

The 35-year old had a relatively quiet game in  front of goal but popped up in the 59th minute to secure a 2-1 win over the visitors- and his first goal of the season. 

"Rodrigo definitely deserved the goal.He has been working very hard over the 22 dayssince our last game," said DPMM FC's coach.

"Albirex are the number one favourites to be champions this year tonight we showed we were the better team.

"We won beacuse we ran and fought like them.Noow we have made the league more interesting ... if we lost, Albirex will eb champions.

"Three points is a big present for everyone.I'm a very happy coach," grinned Simunic.

H wasn't smiling abbout the turnout at the 28,000 capacity Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium though, saying he was disappointed only 10,000 people showed up.

The outspoken Croatian was also unhappy with what he perceived as rough play from Albirex.

"We were playing football -  they were playing rugby,"blasted the Croatian.

"They played very dirty.We don't-We played football 100 per cent. 

"They elbowed our players faces many times ... 15 maybe.Now I have a hospital in my dressing room," he complained.

Not to be undone,Albirex's team manager Koh Muri Tee had some choice words for Simunic.

"I would like to say his played like girls," he retorted when told Simunic felt his players played dirty.

"The way they fell down...It was disgraceful,"he added.

Despite it being the first time they dropped points all season, Koh didn't feel the result would weigh on their minds ahead of next game against harimau Muda on Sunday.

"I don't think the loss will affect our confidence ... Not at all,"he said.

"We were able to compete on an equal footing with a strong team for 90 minutes.I'm definitely happy with my players' performance.

"I've said that Brunei is a very difficult place to come to...A win is a bonus, a draw is good and a loss is nothing to be ashamed off." 

Veteran Simunic is fully aware of the threat that Singapore League leaders Albirex Niigata will pose tonight.

The DPMM FC head coach has led his side to a 2-2 draw against titleholders Tampines Rovers in their first game and a 2-1 win over league giants SAF FC in their second game,so confidence should not be a problem for the players.

But they face perhaps the biggest test against the heralded Japanese outfit, who have picked up maximum points from three games.

Understandably, any team which scores 92 goals in three competitions last year cannot be looked down upon, but Simunic was the first European to play in Japan in the early 80's, is more than well informed about the side.

"If they win against us,they'll have 12 points ... They're almost champions!" claimed the Croatian yesterday.

"Japanese teams takes the best from Germany ... South America.Tehy are highly disciplined and never give up.

"Albirex play like Barcelona and have a good passing game.Their no.10,Sho Kamimura is like Messi.

"They also have a super-sub in their number 9, who came off the bench to score their winner against Woodlands in their last game.

"We must fight and run for every ball - just like Albirex.We must be smart and don't commit any mistakes.

"Albirex won the League Cup last year, made it to the final of the Singapore Cup and finished fourth only in the league because of a poor end to the season, so thet'll want to win more trophies this year," he added.

DPMM FC played their last game on Feb 19 - a lengthy lay-over which didn't sit too well with the coach.

"A 22-day break is not so good ... but its not so bad because I was able to go to Singapore and scout some matches,"said Simunic.

"The break has given us time to improve our fitness but it would have been better if we had the chance to continue after our excellent result against SAF," added the veteran coach.

DPMM FC have never lost to Albirex before, with their three previous encounters ending in two wins and a draw.

Like most football fans in Brunei, Simunic has been following Brunei's successful Hassanl Bolkiah Trophy(HBT)campaign where they won the Under-21 competition for the first time after a 2-0 win over Indonesia.

The former Bahrain coach siad that he hoped th victory will not only inspire DPMM FC but also their fans.

"The HBT has shown that people must be careful of Brunei,"he said.

"Brunei can be shoulder to shoulder against every country in the region."

"Once again Brunei fans can see a big team in town after all the Asean teams.Albirex are a strong Japanese side and they are a good challenge for us so I hope the fans will come out in strong numbers and show their heart for football." 

DPMM FC yesterday delivered a belated birthday present to His Royal Highness Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince.

DPMM FC picked up their first win in over two years with a 2-1 victory over SAF(Singapore Armed Forces)in the league last night at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium in Singapore.

The win came two days after HRH's 38th birthday.The Crown Prince is the chairman of DPMM FC.

DPMM FC started brightly when striker Osman bashiru opened the scoring after connecting on a corner kick in the 17th minute.

This is the second consecutive math that the Ghanaian forward has put his name on the scoresheet.

The match was evenly contested with both teams creating various chances.

But SAF FC had to wait until the 68th minute to find abreakthrough.Midfielder Tatsuro Inui equalised after leaving Wardun with no chance - scoring with a free-kick from 20 metres out.

The game was heading for a draw until Shahrazen Said worked his magic.

The Bruneian dribbled past two defenders in the box and beat goalkeeper Hasan Sunny in the 80th minute to seal the win.

DPMM head coach Vjeran simunic was delighted with the result - revealing that there was additional motivation to grab those three points.

"We promised the Crown Prince that we will for him," said Simunic after the win last night.

"It was important for us to repeat our performance just like the against Tampines,but I thought we did a little better tonight,"added the coach.

"We are happy to get points away from home and have four points from two games.We played a good game and beat an excellent team," continued the croatian.

What was more impressive was the fact that DPMM contested the match without six key playersthat found the back of the net 74 times last season.

"We fielded eight attacking playersand only two defenders.It is good so far that we can still play despite missing six defenders who are not match fit," said Simunic.

"I do hope that we can be a complete team soon and get the level that we were once were,"he added.

Last night's victory puts DPMM in fourth with 4 points.

DPMM will have a break before their next math which will be held on March 11against current table toppers Albirex Niigata at home.

"We have a break in between and we might meet a team who will go into the match still unbeaten," said Simunic. 

Old foes are set to battle at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium in Singapore today.

DPMM FC will be looking to extend their unbeaten run against the Singapore Armed Forces FC when they meet today.

They have played the Singapore giants five times and won four of thise ties.The other result was a draw.

Today's match, however, is going to be a tough trip for DPMM FC especially since this is their first away game for over two years.

But DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic is hopeful of another good performance - just like in their previous match against defending champions Tampines Rovers, last Sunday which ended a 2-2- draw at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

"We will need to repeat the same performance and we showed last weekend against Tampines.We had a good game and it is important that we do it again", said Simunic during an interview yesterday.

"It is the wrong time to play against them as we are still missing 6 key players, but I do hope there will be no problem,"he added.

"It is definitely better to have a full line-up, but we will go out and do our best against them," said the Croatian.

The head coach said that key players like Yusof Salleh,Pg Sallehuddin Damit and Abang Norsuhilmy, who are still not match fit, were vital at the defensive end.

"We wexpect a lot from Sunday's match because we have always come up with good results against SAF FC," said Simunic.

But that could lead to bigger motivation for them- to seek revenge ... and they could be under pressure to get it done,"he added.

The coach is hoping that his side can pick up quickly and get back to their old pace.

"The problem is that we missed friendly games and during the early stages of the season the matches are being treated as prepartions for the entire season," explained Simunic.

"Oour bench needs more experience and we should be at the level that we want to be in the next three months," he added.

"I do hope we can get back to the level that we were two years ago and I believe we are on the right track.We need to be patient and we have to trust on ourselves to be where we want to be,"he concluded.

The match will kick off at 7.45pm. 

Tampines Rovers FC's head coach Steven Tan thinks that playing at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas is a tough task for any team.

Though scores of supporters have always descended on the home of Brunei football whenever DPMM FC play, Sunday night's tie against defending champions Tampines was another level.

Hardly surpeising considering the 2-2 draw was their first competitive game since September,2009 - the year theywon the League Cup in their debut season.

Though Tampines are the S-League titleholders, they are not used to playing in front of such an audience and it showed when they fell behind twice before midfielder Jamil Ali saved the day with an injury time equaliser.

Tan,who guided the Stags to the S-League crown in his first season as coach last year, was full of praise for the DPMM FC faithful.

"It was a good crowd, good atmosphere and good advertisement for foorball - especially in Brunei," the ex-Singapore national tole the Brunei Times after the match.

"Despite the rain I think there were more than 10,000 people here.

"It was a new atmosphere ...for some of the players,they were overawed by the occasion.

"It will not be easy for other teams coming here.DPMM FC are a tough fight, especially with this crowd," he insisted.

The Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium has always been a fortess for Vjeran Simunic's men - after they lost only once in their debut season in 2009.Of course  it was the 6-1 result to Home United on Aug 2 - a scoreline they didn't deserve since all three defenders were shown red cards.

DPMM FC's home games have always attracted large crowds and competing in 2009, Brunei's only professional club led the league in attendance records.

Back to Sunday night, the rain that started mid-way through the first half failed to dampen the spectators spirits, though it did affect Sasa Dreven.

The young Croatain goalkeeper was at fault for DPMM's second goal, a long range attempt from countryman Ivan Jerkovic which made it 2-1.

"Dreven misjudged plus the rain," said Tan,referring to the fact that playing conditions got worse midway through the half.

The S-League has introduced a new Mikasa ball this season,making the first time in a dozen years it has taken a change from tradition.The ball has been getting mixed reviews from DPMM players and it looks like they aren't the only ones. 

"It happens,it might slip during corners. 

"Its a new ball so it doesn't matter whether its Adidas,Nike ... its just am matter of getting use to it," added the 42-year old coach. 

Tan also added he refused to believe his side would return to Singapore without a point.

"I saw some of the boys had their heads down so I said we still got time ... We controlled the second half, he pointed out, an opinion that many at the stadium would agree.

"I knew we could equalise because we had been creating chances," he said, though he admitted " the whole team were avreage today(Sunday).

Understandably, hopes are high that this season will be another one for the highlight reels.

"We have to," he said when asked whether the team's aim was to retain their S-League crown.

"We are the defending champions." 

What should have been a fairy tale finish ended in frustration for DPMM FC last night.

Playing their first competitive match since September,2009, DPMM FC let in a aheat-wrenching injury time goal to let S-League title-holders Tampines steal a 2-2 draw.

Midfielder Jamil Ali's lob over Wardun Yussof was a sobering sight for the healthy crowd at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, all eager to watch their team's S-League season opener.

With three corners in their first two minutes,DPMM FC didn't waste any time getting their fans on the edge of their seats and got in front after an Osman Basiru striker in the 38th minute.

Though Fahrudin Mustafic would equalise early in the second half, an error by Tapines shot-stopper Sasa dreven saw Ivan Jerkovic hand the hosts the 2-1 lead in the 69th minute- only for jamil to spoil the party.

Frustrated fans might have complained that Vjeran Simunic's decision to substitute two defenders in the last 10 minutes backfired, but the coach stuck to his guns.

"We changed them (Sairol Sahari and Shahrulrizal Abd Rahman) because they were injured," said the Croatian.

"We could win ... No, we deserved to win.We showed we're a good team and that Singapore must care about us.

We deserved the three points, but becuase of the beep test qualification, we are without key players Yusof Salleh and midfielder Abang Norsuhilmy Taha," he said referring to the mandatory fitness test that several players have been unable to pass.

Osman netted the opener when he pounced on defender Tales Ricarte dos Santos's shot that rebounded off the crossbar after a cornerkick from Azwan Salleh.

Not only was dos Santos a monster in the air, the Brazilian also kept a tight leash on Aleksander Duric, though the veteran striker was able to deliver a header which was easily saved by Wardun in the 44th minute and then saw Davor Piskor's shot sail wide of the left post a minute later.

But there was no denying Tampines in the 48th minute when Mustafic riffled a low freekick poast Wardun's left after Jerkovic had fouled Jamil outside the box.

DPMM FC captain Rosmin Khamis was a beast in the centre of the park with his ball-winning abilities and cool head - working well with his Croatian central midfield partner Jerkovic.

But overall, the team failed to create space and work the ball around a wellorganised Tampines back-line marshalled by mustafic.

Less than six yards out, Rodrigo Gral should have made it 2-1 to DPMM after receiving a Shahrazen Saidpass in the 62nd minute. But Dreven, who had a fine game in between the sticks, came off his line to save from close-range.

Basiru passed the ball to jerkovic, and with space and time, fired a 25-yard cannonball which his compatriot had a hand on but could not hold on to.

As opposed to Gral, Basiru was a menace throughout the game with his willingness to run at defenders and had a penalty claim dismissed in the 2nd minute.

Dos Santos proved his worth once again in the 77th minute with a goal-line clearance, but failing to keep the ball, the three points was always in threat. 

When jamil took advantage of some confusion in the box - after Sairol and Shahrulrizal's substitutes, Suhaime Yusof might not have known who to mark- there was nothing Simunic could do but just cover his face and turn away. 

Vjeran Simunic has just paid Tampines Rovers the ultimate compliment ahead of their S-League opener tonight.

"They are like the Singaporean Barcelona," said the DPMM FC coach yesterday.

"Alexander Duric and Fahrudin Mustafic are legends- they are maybe the best two players in Singapore

"Benoit Croissant is one of the best defenders in the league over the past seven to 10 yearsand the side also have a few good playerswho came from the Croatian first division... goalkeeper Sasa Dreven, midfielder Davor Piskor and Gligor Gligorov.

"Midfielders Jamil Ali,Imran Sahib, Ismadi Mukhtar have been involved in the national team so we all know tampines are a strong side," he added. 

Despite all the hype building up to the game against Tampines - Simunic seemed confident a win for DPMM FC was on the cards.

"We an speak about Tampines for 10 pages, but I don't want to think about that- - I want to think about my own team," he said.

"We always play well against big teamsand our fans are our 12th player.That will help us to make good performance,"added the DPMM coach.

Tampines team manager Zulkarnain Zainal admitted the Charity Shield win against Home Utd was a welcome boost ahead of their title defence, Gligorov and Piskor netted both the goals to help the Stags take home the first piece of silverware on offer this season, and Zulkarnaen believed the team was now fully preparedfor their first league game.

But though DPMM haven't played a competitive game in three years, the manager was talking anything for granted.

"We're ready," promised Zulkarnaen

"It won't be easy to retain our title we'll have to maintain our standard.

"We're expecting DPMM to fill a good side.You cannot underestimate them, they must be respected.

"Of course we are happy winning the Charity Shield but for every team, every first match is a difficult task," he added.

Defending S-League champions Tampines Rovers arrived yesterday ahead of DPMM FC's first match since their 20-month absence from their international football scene in tonight's S-League match-up at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Coach Steven Tan, who led Tampines title in his debut last season, was wary of the threat posed by DPMM FC, whose two-year absence from the league will no doubt stroke their burning desire to impress their home fans in their first match of the season.

Speaking after a Tampines training session,Tan, said, "DPMM FC is a good team, and always gives Singaporean teams a gard fight, so I am expecting a close encounter."

"We haven't seen DPMM FC play for two years, so after fifteen minutes, we will see how they play, and we will adjust accordingly.I'm sure its the same coach,so their style will be the same as two years ago,"he added.

Tonights match looks to be an interesting prospect, with both teams looking to make their mark on the league and chalk up their first points of the 2012 season.

DPMM FC wil be keen to re-establish themselves as a serious title contenders and relieve the glory of their 2009 debut season Singapore League Cup victory. 

As if going up against titleholders,Tampines Roversin their S-League opener next Sunday isn't enough of a problem, DPMM FC's head coach now has another thing to worry about.

The S-League's mandatory beep test, a gauge of cardiovascular fitness, has seen eight of the team's 25 players fail to make the grade when it was carried out last friday.

The multistage fitness test requires the players to run between the 20m spaced cones,with their speed increasing in accordance to increasing beeps.

The test was conducted on DPMM players for the first time since it was not mandatory when the club made its debut in the S-League during the 2009 season.

Without a passing mark, which the S-League set at 13.1, the players will not be able to play - a veritable headache for Vjeran Simunic especially since it looks like he will be without two ket defenders.

"My main concerns are leftback Yusof Salleh and rightback Shahrulrizal rahmanthough Sahrul are down with a fever," said Simunic yesterday.

"That means I have only centreback Tales Ricarte dos Santos as a defender.

"But I'm satisfied with how many of my players passed.They have not played competitive football for two years and except for Jerkovic,it was all their first time.Even in Europe,Asia .Africa ...  They don't have this test. 

"The S-League officials were also pleasantly surprised with how many players passed.Some S-League players takes three, four, five times to pass," added the Croatian.

A big reason Jerkovic passed the test was because he used to play for Singapore Armed Forces FC.Not all hope is lost for the defensive duo since another test has been penned for Friday.

The full list of eight players included defender Suhaime Yussof,Ampuan Nurul Hazmi Husin,Abang Norsuhilmy Taha,Md Hanafizal and striker Md Zulreimi Zaini.Brazilian striker Rodrigo Gral was also among the eight but he is still recovering from injury.

Despite this,fitness was not a problem when DPMM went up against Thai Premier League side Chiangrai Utd and beat them 2-1 last month.

Though that point was briught up in the interview,the veteran coach felt there was more involved to the tests than just running.

"Even the last time we did it (during training) Yusof and Shahrul did not make it. 

"Maybe it is a mental thing

"I hope they will pass (on Friday).If not it will be a problem for DPMM FC." 

Vjeran Simunic doesn't know if he should be crying or laughing.

The DPMM FC coach was among the first in the country to hear his team would open their S-League season against defending champions Tampines Rovers.

The match, which might be set for Feb 9 at a venue yet to be confirmed, was announced during Thursday night's S-League season launch at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

"Well ... We got the best of the best!" exclaimed Simunic yesterday.

"I don't whether its a good thing to play the strong teams first -  maybe its better that way.

"We will be preparing hard this week then turn it down next week," added  the Croatian coach.

DPMM's first meeting with the Stags,on April 3,2009 ended in a 1-1 draw at the Jalan Besar Stadium while the second on July,10 2009 saw the hosts record a 2-1 win at the same venue. The third which was their last game was a 2-2 draw at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on Sept 29,2009.

Despite the results Simunic believed the team shoudn't be taking anything for granted - especially since they have not played a competitive game sincethe 2-2 stalemate.

"During our three games against them we drew twice and lost once," Simunic pointed out.

"They have developed a lot over the years and they have really reinforced their teams with new imports.

"We go into the competition(S-League) with just one serious game,but I'm always prepared for anything," said the coach with their win over Chiangrai.

With Tampines taking to the Jalan Besar next Sunday for their Charity Shield against the Singapore Cup Winners Home Utd, Simunic said the chance the curtain-raiser provided him to scout the Stags out was one not to be missed.

Tampines beat Home Utd title by a single point and the clash against the rivals is shaping up to be one which S-League fans - and the wily coach - will not want to miss. 

"Absolutely I will need to go to Singapore to watch them play the Charity Shield first," said Simunic.

"I heard they have a new line-up and formation so it's necessary for me to see them. Then I will have a clearer understanding of their strengths. 

"I don't know when our game against them will be, but I doubt it'll be on Feb 9 because they play another big game, the Charity Shield on Feb 5 - so they can ask the FAS to play after that." 

Defending Great Eastern YEO's S-League champions Tampines Rovers will start theur title defence against returning Bruneian outfit DPMM FC.

Tampines, who pipped Home Utd to the title last season, were pitted against DPMM at Thursday's 2012 launsh season at the Live Wire,Marina Bay Sands, which featured a fixture draw for the first time in the competition's history.

DPMM created quite an impression the last time they played in the S-League in 2009, winning the Singapore League Cup and challenging for the title briefly before they were removed from the competition following a ban by FIFA.

However that suspension has since been lifted, allowing the club to participate in this season's S-League, although they will not have an easy start against Rovers.

Speaking at the season launch, Football Association of Singapore (FAS) president Zainudin Nordin spoke of his excitement and the impending season, which starts of Feb 9.

"This fixture draw marks the start of the 2012 Great Eastern-YEO's S-League which promises a lot of excitement especially with the two new teams, harimau Muda and DPMM FC, which will hope will entice fans to come down to the stadiums," Zainudin said.

S-League CEO Lim Chin also expressed his belief that the new season would be one to remember.

"It is great to kick off the 2012 season with this inaugural fixture draw,a dn especially so with all the club chairmen present," Lim said.

"Their presence today (Thursday) affirms the club's conviction in making the upcoming season one of the most eagerly anticipated ever

"On top of that,we have two new teams in the S-League this season, Harimau Muda and Brunei DPMM FC. These two new teams will definitely inject a new whole level of excitement into the game and we sincerely hope the Singaporeans will come down and support just like we have done so for the LionsXII (participating in the Malaysia Super League)

Last season's runners-up Home United open against Balestier Khalsa, while perennial contenders SAFFC travel against Albirex Niigata. 

Today's Singapore League(S-League)draw marks the next step in DPMM FC's return to the competition they were forced to leave three years ago.

Though fans of the Sultanate's only professional club were left complaining about the ruling, they'll have plenty to celebrate about today when the 24-game schedule is made public.

DPMM FC club manager Pg Waslimin Pg Hj Momin will be in Singapore today for the draw, and though the league has already come up with the fixtures for the February 9 kick-off which will see 13 teams in action, though the sides do not yet know who they will play.

"The fixture has already been made, but it is only numbers ...  1 vs 2, 3 vs 4 for example," explained DPMM team manger Ali Hj Momin yesterday.

"We don't know which numbers we are so Pg Waslimin will be there to pick he added,"he added.

Ali also pointed out that with the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) slated for the Feb 25 to March 9, the club were looking at talking to the S-League to schedule away matches during that period.

"The season starts on Feb 9 so there is still time for us to play at home(at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium)," said Ali. 

"We haven't asked them yet because we want to know what is the draw like first," added the former national player.

The team manager also said that today's draw would not include Singapore Cup and League Cup matches  - which will be decided on a later date. 

Stefano Cugurra Teco remained upbeat despite Chiangrai United's 2-1 defeat to DPMM on Wednesday night.

The brazilian coach said that even though they lost the one-off charity match against DPMM FC, they would leave the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium with their heads held high.

Though they took the lead on the 18th minute after a contentious goal by Wasan Natasan, the visitors were on the back-foot for the rest of half -which ended with a Rodrigo Gral penalty and a Shahrazen header giving the hosts the lead.

But with Shahrazen sitting out the second half with a knock and Abang Norsuhilmy Taha introduced as a defensive midfielder,DPMM FC gave the Thaismore space and found chances hard to come by.

The Thais had several chances to equalise and were unlucky to see a 90th minute freekick sail over the bar.

"They(DPMM) had their own tactic ... Play on the counterattack and defend," said Teco of the second half.

"At times it looked as if we were the home teambecause we had better football," added Teco.

Unlike his counterpart Vjeran Simunic,Teco flt there was nothing controversial about Wasan's goal.

And though they attacked with impetus at the start of the game, all it took was onr mental lapse for Chiangrai to capitalise.

Despite looking to have won an aerial ball at the middle of the park,DPMM's Ghanaian striker Osman bashiru was judged to have fouled an opponent - much to the crowd's objection.

As the DPMM players arguing to the referee, the Thais wasted no time in providing a decisive ball to Wasan - who had no problem converting during to a one-on-one with goalkeeper Wardun.

"Si(Yes) ... (It was) a good goal," said the former Persebaya Surabaya coach.

"We missed a lot of chances- our finishing was not there. But it was a good experience for all of our locals since many of them have not played an international game before ... Never had a stamp in their passport before

"So it was good playing in the new stadium with a new atmosphere and different pitch and weather. I think they will grow for this new experience I'm sure," said Teco.

Happy as he was with the win,Simunic wanted to use the goal to teach his players a lesson.

With the S-League looming large on Feb9, awareness on the pitch - especially after a two-year lay-off - will be key if DPMM want to challenge for the title.

"It was a stupid goal ... The referee's mistake - he let them play without blowing the whistle," fumed Simunic after the match.

"Five thousand people showed what they though of it. But we can learn from that goalI told the players we always have to be ready.

"The Thais wanted to win.They were very angry, very nervous.Thet were under pressure they needed the win ...played 100 percent.

"I know before the game Stefano said we can beat any side in the S-League, but that would have been his excuse if they lost," he said jokingly. 

Vjeran Simunic is banking on his players' spirit to see them through against Chiangrai Utd tonight.

Second in the Thai Premier League,Chiamgrai are in town for a historical charity match against DPMM where proceeds will be chanelled to the Humanitarian Aid Fund for Flood Victims in Thailand and Cambodia.

While the Thais are using the game at the National Stadium to keep them motivated during a month's break in the TPL, DPMM have other things on their mind.

The club hasn't had a match this big since 2009-their last Singapore league match before being forced to pull out od the league due to FIFA's suspension,which was only lifted last May.

Though Chiangrai have come with a seven import squad, Simunic's men were able to hold the visitors to a 0-0 draw in a low-key friendly at Jerudong last Monday. 

It has given the Croatain a lot of cause for optimism.

"We will take to the field with big emotion and will show how we play football,"declared the gutsy coach yesterday. 

"We played with them yesterday so know they are strong.We are still in preparation for the S-League so we are now at the same level with them.

"But it was very nice experience for us ...  The locals do not often get chances to play foreign teams and imports like these," added Simunic .

Simunic is expected to start with the same players as Monday's friendly, with Md Wardun once again the man with the gloves. 

Wardun will have left back Yusof Salleh, Brazilian Tales Ricarte and right back Shahrulrizal, with the midfield filled with Azwan Salleh on the left and Hj Subhi on the right.

Fan favourite Ivan Jerkovic and skipper Rosmin Khamis are expected to play in the middle of park,with a three-man attack slotting the experienced Brazilian Rodrigo Gral in the middle and Ghanaian Osman Basiru and Shahrazen Said on the left and right respectively.

Simunic's counterpart,Stefan.Cugarra Teco, is also counting on an electrifying atmosphere at the National Stadiumto spur his players on - though readily admitted DPMM have more reason to be fired up.

"We had some chances on Monday night ...  the tie was a normal result for us,"said the brazilian who won the Coppa Italia in 1984 and 1986 with AS Roma and again in 1988,1989 and 1991 with Sampdoria.

"But with the crowd and the atmosphere at the national stadium, I am sure we will get  a better performance from both teams.

"I know DPMM have not played for a long time so they will be full of motivation."

"This is a very good chance for us to prepare for our last league game on Jan 28 against Buriram PEA,and I hope we will get a good response from the Thai public in Brunei.

"DPMM are a good team with a lot of good players," added Teco.

When pressed, the brazilian said he was impressed with his compatriot dos Santos as well as Basiru, Rosmin and Shahrazen.

Tickets will be on sale at the venu starting from 9am today.

They can also be obtained from the DPMM office at Suite 1, Level 1, Halimatul Sa'adiah Building, Gadong. 

They only have one thing in their minds - victory.

Thai Premier League(TPL) side,Chiangrai United are in town and they are looking to leave with a win.

The Thai team will play a charity match against DPMM FC at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on Wednesday-the game being a big test for DPMM FC.

With the TPL ending next month, the already match-fit Chiangrai United are always the favourites for Wednesday's match, but owner Miti Tiyapairat is not taking anything for granted.

"We wil do our best and wil not underestimate any team.We will use all our best players right from the start and it will up to the coach to get the team ready for the game," said Miti during the interview yesterday.

Miti feels that it willa good match-up and is glad to be playing the match against the Bruneian side.They have come in full force and will eb giving it their all against DPMM.

"Our league organisation is a bit por.This month we played only one game so it is difficult to motivate the players to continue,"said Miti.

"Fortunately, we get to play here and this will definitely be a very good test for our team,he added.

"We have brought all our imports and all of them will lace up against DPMM FC.This should be a good game," he continued.

Chiangrai Utd have brought along seven imports- six Brazilians and one Romanian to the Sultanate.

The Thai side are treating Wednesday's game as a warm-up for their final match in the TPL next month.

"We have one last game in the league on Feb,28 which is against the champions Buriram ," said Miti.

The friendly with DPMM FC will be very good practise for us and also to help our opponents to be ready for their season,"he added.

"Our target is to win .We have had very good performances at home and have only lost two games there in the season - including topping some big teams,"he continued.

Chiangrai utd currently sit in 10th place in the 18 team TPL with 43 points from 33 games played.

The team was founded in 2009 and a year later won promotion to the Thai Premier League.They are coached by Stefano Cugarra, who hails from Brazil, and he ehlped the team won promotion by finishing third in the Thai Division 1.

Wednesday's match will be the first time DPMM FC parade their four imports -Brazilians Rodrigo Gral and Tales Ricarte dos Santos,Ghanaian Osman bashiru and Croatian Ivan Jerkovic - on the field.

Proceeds from the tickets, which are priced at $5each, will be chanelled to the Humanitarian Aid Fund for Food Victims in Thailand and Cambodia. 

Probably none undrstands the importance of DPMM FC's charity match against Thai Premier League (TPL) side Chiangrai United on Wednesday night more than Rodrigo Gral.

The Brazilian striker has become DPMM's fourth and final signing, with the only professional club in their final stages of preparation for their second S-League campaign on Feb 9.

The journeyed 34-year old hitman - who started his career together with ex-Barcelona star Ronaldinho in the Gremio youth team in the 90's - believes that Chiangrai will be stern test of the team's character.

Having used to lace up for Japanese outfits Jubilo Iwata and Yokohama Marionos,Gral is well-versed in Asian football.

His first interview with the Brunei Times since the club announced his signing last week, Gral also took the opportunity to express his delight in playing for the 2009 Singapore League Cup Champions.

"We've all worked hard to prepare for the league ...(so)its a good test for the team to see how strong and competitive we are," said Gral after yesterday's training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

"I've had no problems fitting in the team - football is the same in every country.This is a very good club and the players have helped me adjust.

"I've got no family so they are my family.My family is the team and Simunic has helped me settle.

"I also like playing with Osman and Ronaldo," added Gral.

Though Brunei might have its own Samuel Eto'o - Simunic once compared striker Abu Bakar Mahari to the Cameroon legend-this was the first time talk was turned to Ronaldo.

You know Ronaldo.The no.22(Shahrazen Said),"said Gral.

"I call him Ronaldo because I think they have the same face.And yes, the Brazilian Ronaldo not the Portugal one," he clarified with a grin.

Now the Sultanate is back in international football after a long lay-off,and DPMM FC are back in the S-League,local football fans have been buzzing with excitement ahaed of the Feb 9 kick-off.

The long layover was a fact that Tales Ricarte was quick to point out.

"The team haven't played against a professional club for two years so the friendly is good for the group since we'll get used to playing together and moving in our positions- thats very important,"stressed the defender.

"We need to play hard games because the league is starting next month.

"My English is not very good, but everyday,I'm learning a new word and understanding how my teammates play...Whether they like to get a pass fast or slow,things like that," added the Brazilian.

Another player who is relishing Wednesday's match is Ivan jerkovic, the Croatian midfielder.Jerkovic, who also had experience playing in Indonesia, warned that Thai teams shouldn't be taken lightly.

"I've known Thai team from before and I can say they are at the top level in the region,"said Jerkovic who tured 33 on Friday.

"We all have to stay behind the ball because they are very good technically and can keep possession for 90 minutes,"he added.

Though Basiru might not had much to say,his comments are nothing new.

"We ned friendly games like these because we need to play against stronger teams,"said the striker.

"The friendlies that we usually play we win a lot,"added the Ghanaian,referring to the large spate of wins over local sides they face before this. 

Three years ago, top Bruneian side DPMM created buzz of excitement here. They won the 2009 Singapore League Cup and were in contention to become the first foreign side to lift the S-League crown.

However the charge was controversially halted after FIFA imposed a two-year ban on them for government interference in their affairs.

Now, Brunei DPMM FC are back, and have targeted a top-five finish in the upcoming Great Eastern-Yeo's S-League season which is expected to kick-off on Feb 9.

Speaking at a pre-season conference at the Singapore Sports School yesterday, DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic urged fans to be patient with them.

"We have missed two years of football, and people think we can't play nowBut I trust my players,if not I wouldn't have come back,"said Simunic.

"But its difficult for us nowThere are maybe eight or niine teams that can win it... We must be 200% than before.We haven't had enough time to prepare.We can't do everything overnight."

Simunic himself left side Ho Chi Minh FC after exercising a clause in his contract allowing him to leave should DPMM offer him a deal.

But the Croatian said,"We hope we have chosen the ideal foreign players, but my focus remains on the locals.If I don't have a strong local team, not even Messi will help me,"

Last week, the FAS announced a slew of changes to the S-League,including a new CEO in former SAFFC chairman,Lim Chin, the inclusion of the Harimau Muda - Malaysia's Under-23 side and a new format for the 14-team 2012 season, where it will shift from a three-round format, 33-match season per team, to a two-round, 26 match season.

Simunci welcomed the changes.

There is also the Singapore Cup and League Cup, which will add up to over 30 matches,which is just nice.It's definitely better for the players,"he said.

"And with the addition of the Malaysian side,it will be very interesting for the fans." 

DPMM FC fans will get a first-hand look at the club's new signings next Wednesday when they play a charity match against Thai Premier League side Chiangrai United.

Though midfield maestro Ivan Jerkovic needs no introduction, the other three imports for the upcoming Singapore League (S-League) season are largely unknowns in the Sultanate.

Brazilian defender Tales Ricarte dos Santos and Ghanaian striker Osman Basiru will be out to impress when they take to the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in berakas at 8.15pm on Dec 18, but all eyes will be on dos Santos's compatriot Rodrigo Gral.

It is understood the striker has agreed to play for brunei's only professional football club, though he has yet to put pen to paper.

Having started his career together with ex-Barcelona and former AC Milan star Ronaldinho in the Gremio youth team in the 1990s, the 34 year old Gral was part of the Brazil Under-23 squad that competed in the 2004 Olympics in Greece. He also represented Brazil at the 1999 FIFA World Youth Championship in Nigeria, where he netted once.

Gral is no stranger to asia having played for Japanese outfits Jubilo iwata and Yokohama Marinos.

DPMM FC confirmed the charity match,and the probable line-up, during a Press conference at their office in Gadong yesterday.

Proceeds from the tickets, which are priced at $5 each, will be channelled to the Humanitarian Aid fund for Flood Victims in Thailand and cambodia.

Also on the list of players for DPMM FC for 2012 season were captain Rosmin Khamis, goalkeeper Wardun Yussof, midfielder Hj Md Subhi Abdilah Bakir and striker Shahrazen Said.

Promising yougsters Ak Md Fakharazzi and Md Hendra Azam,both who were in the national Under-23 team will make their debut in the league.

The Brunei Times first broke the news of the friendly match in its Dec 30 edition.

While it might help the give the club's fans something to finally cheer about, DPMM FC knows they have to play more matches against quality opposition before they can say they are truly prepared for the Feb 9 S-League.

After all, the game will be the first real test of their standard since their last competitive tie, a 2-2 draw against Tampines Rovers in the S-League on Sept 29,2009.

It can be argued that next Wednesday's match is much more important.

Vjeran Simunic has yet to see how his imports can face up against quality teams, and the fact that his local players have been through lay-off notwithstanding their time in the local football leagues will also be on top of his mind.

As the Croatian will undoubtly agree, the results will not be important what he learns about his team will be.

The club admitted as much in a Press release issued yesterday.

"This charity match represents DPMM's best chance to gauge our abilities,strengths and weaknesses before the S-League starts," it said.

The 2009 Singapore League Cup champions, DPMM were not allowed to complete their fairy-tale debut season in the S-League after FIFA suspended Brunei in 2009.

Simunic who like Jerkovic, made a sensational return to the club last year maintained the friendlies have never been a true test of the team's potential.

Chiangrai Utd, though, will be just that.

Founded in 2009, the team won promotion to the TPL last season when they finished third in the Thai Division 1 the previous season. 

Ivan Jerkovic would welcome a move back to DPMM FC.

The Croatian midfieldr, who was highly respected during his time with DPMM, currently plies his trade at the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) FC.

The 32-year old was an integral cog in Vjeran Simunic's midfield during their time in the Singapore League(S-League) and was DPMM FC's leading scorer with four goals heading into their 2009 Singapore League Cup final against his current employers.

With DPMM FC looking to return to the S-League, and still in search of their fourth import, Jerkovic whose contract expires on Nov 30 is keeping his option open.

"I don't see any problem coming back,"he said in an exclusive interview with the Brunei Times yesterday.

"My contract expires on Nov 30th and the (SAF FC) management called me to their office few days ago to ask about my plan for the next season.I said I won't go back to Croatia ... I want to stay in Asia.

"But we will start talks about a new deal so I need to know what to do.

"I enjoyed my time in Brunei.The people were very friendly and the players very good ...(midfielders Hj Subhi,Sairol,Rosmin,defender Salleh, and striker Shahrazen.

"I'm turning 33 in January but I've been the only player to play in every game this season. I've got no problems with injury I can still run.

Look at Duric(Tampines Rovers).He's 41 but he has 25 goals this season," he pointed out.

The midfielder said that though he would like to return to DPMM, it was not up to him to decide and contact with the club's management has yet to be made.

Though he admitted the club has yet to talk with the Croatian,Pg Waslimin sounded positive enough when asked about the matter.

"We(the management)must sit down and talk about it," said the DPMM club manager yesterday.

A move back to the Sultanate will no doubt be enthusiastically met by both DPMM players and fans, who have long acknowledged his influnce on and off the pitch.Having played with the team for the whole of their debut in the S-League season in 2009, Jerkovic would have no problem fitting back into the squad.

The fact that he currently plays in the S-League is also another advantage since he will not have to spend time adjusting to the style of play.

The midfielder has always had an eye for the goal after all, he was DPMM's second best goal-scorer in the league in 2009 with seven goals, a record he shared with Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga.

He is also enjoying a rich vein of form at the moment, another encouraging sign if DPMM do choose to bring him back.

Grabbing ther fourth goal during the SAF's 6-3 win over Geylang in the S-League matchthe striker brought his tally for the season to 10.

He has found the net eight time in the league  and bagged both goals during his team's 2-2 draw against Albirex Niigata in the Singapore Cup quarterfinals.

The former Pelita Jaya star chipped in with one assist in their 4-1 win against Etoille in the league and netted twice during the 3-0 win over the Courts Young Lions recently.

"I don't know how many I assisted this season ... Perhaps 15 or 20," he said.

Jerkovic has also been a threat in set-pieces, with three of the four goals he scored during DPMM's championship run in the 2009 Singapore League Cup coming from dead ball situations. 

DPMM FC, who are returning to the Singapore League next month, could be attacking to a samba beat.

Preparing with their return to the S-League, DPMM have import players with Brazilian defender Tales dos Santos,Croatian midfielder Ivan Jerkovic and Ghanaian  striker with one more slot to fill the quota.

There was an unfamiliar face at the team's training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium yesterday.Brazilian striker Rodrigo Gral is currently on trial with the team and is trying to make his way to fill the quota of imports.

Yesterday was only his second training session with the team, but he has settled down quickly.

"The team have good techniques and the players are very fast.It was quite a surprise for me actually, but I already expected a team here in Brunei," said Gral during an interview yesterday.

"Playing here is quite similar to being in Qatar where the weather is hot and humid just like in brunei.There is also no problem with the local food since I'm used to eating rice and having tea- from my playing days in Japan," he added.

The pint-sized (176cm and 70 kg) striker relies on his spped in the box to score.The 34-year old Brazilianstarted his career to gether together with ex-Barcelona and AC Milan midfielder Ronaldinho in Gremio youth teams in the 1990s.

Gral represented Brazil at the World Youth Championship and even had a goal to his name in the Nigeria tournament which he scored against Zambia in the group stages.

He was also part in the brazil Under-23 squad that completed in the 2004 Olympics in Greece.

He spent five years playing in Japan-with Jubilo iwata and then Yokohama Marinos-from 2001-2006 and averaged one goal every two matches during his time playing in the J-League.

He then moved on to play in Qatar next three years before returning to brazil to play for Bahia FC. 

Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee has set his eyes on finishing in the league top five of the Singapore League this season.

Despite the squad being relatively young in nature, and only 11 players remaining from the South-east Asian (SEA) Games squad that beat Indonesia to claim the gold medal,Ong is confident that his team has what it takes to shine in the S-League.

"The Football Association of Malaysia has not set me any targets with this team,but I want my boys to finish in the top five of the S-League next year,"he said.

The former Sabah midfielder hopes that by bringing a young team to the league will help the players to gain more experience and build their own style of football, which he aims to use in 2013's Asian Football ConfederationUnder-22 Championship qualifiers and the next edition of the SEA Games which is also in 2013.

"About 75% of the squad can play in the Under-22 qualifiers next year, and reaching that tournament is a must for me," said Ong.

"We need to give the younger players exposure and the chance to build of our own... and it helps the same group of boys willa lso be eligible for the next SEA Games in 2013."

While he knows his side will be tested all the way in the S-League, Ong remains confident that the likes of Mahali Jasuli and Izzaq Faris, who displayed an impressive performance during the SEA Games, as well as defender Fadli Shas amd the midfielder duo Irfan Fazali and Wan Zack Haikal, who have returned from Slovakian club Zlate Moravce for the winter break, will help the side establish itself. 

They were the first side to win a football trophy in Singapore when they bagged the League Cup n 2009.

They were also well in the hunt for the S-League title in 2009, until FIFA suspended the Foottball Association Brunei Darussalam(BAFA) due to government interference in their affairs, and they were barred from completing the final five fixtures of the season.

But DPMM FC will return to the s-League next year to complete the 14-team roster, ending the hopes of the likes of Sembawang Soccer academy, who had applied to join the competition next year.

The ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) received word from the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) last week, and yesterday confirmed the Brunei side's return to Singapore's domestic football competitions.

"DPMM's return is the worst kept secret in local football,"said Tampines Rovers coach Steve Tan, who guided the Stags to the S-League title this year.

"They are a good team that will probably finish in the top five, it should be very interesting next year."

The FAS have yet to make the announcement of DPMM's return.

BAFA have got their house in order and renamed themselves the Natioanl Football Association Brunei Darussalam.The move has seen them reinstated by FIFA, paving the way for DPMM to secure their ticket back to Singapore.

Croatia's Ivan Jerkovic has left SAFFC and rejoined the team he played in 2009.Brazilian Tales Santos and Ghanaian forward Osman bashiru are also understood to have signed with the team,and DPMM are reportedly hosting several other foreigners on trial to fill the fourth slot.

SAFFC were the main beneficiaries of DPMM's exit in 2009, winning the title after the brunei's side league results were expunged.

The Warriors' coach Richard Bok welcomed the return, and he told Today: "They were a strong team that provided excitement when they were playing then, and we welcome their return.

"Ivan (Jerkovic)has joined them,and they seem to have retained most of their local players and signed good foreign ones.They should be a strong team again."

In 2009,S-League clubs travelled to Bandar Seri Begawan, where DPMM held their home games at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium, with crowds reaching numbers of 10,000, and Today understands the same arrangement will follow next year.

It will mean much travelling for Tampines and Home United.

Both Tampines and Home will compete in the AFC Cup next year, and the Stags have been drawn in Group F with Hong Kong's Kitchee FC, and Vietnam's Song Lam Nghe An and Malaysia's Super League runners-up Terengganu.

Tan does not foresee any problems and said,"I'm sure the FAS will make proper arrangements and work around our fixtures.

"We look forward to DPMM's return." 

DPMM FC are back in the Lion's den - and are ready fro the challenge too.

Brunei's only professional club,DPMM FC, are back in the S-League according to the FAS website.

The news was yesterday confirmed by DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic, who welcomes it with open arms.

"That is good news for us.We have started preparing since October and it is not easy from the start especially with the players having had no competitive games for the past two years," said Simunic during an interview with the Times yesterday.

"We are working very hard and I can say that we are 75% to the level we want to reach,"he added.

"We will even need to be better than what we were two years ago since the league is getting much competitive with clubs like Etoille of France is in the fray," said Simunic.

"But everyday there is good news because I can see steady improvement.We are hungry for the challenge and I have faith in the players.The local players are not afaraid and have all responded well - working hard as a team," added the Croatian.

"We have had a lot of young playerscome for tryouts as well and the future of Brunei football definitely looks good,"continued Simunic.

The biggest problem for the team is the lack of competitive games.Despite this,the coach believes that they can attain what they want in the near future.

"We need to be patient and we should be able to get to the level we want by July next year.The only problem is that we haven't had enough friendly games to test our form,"said Simunic.

"We're also not able to see the full potential of the import players at this point as well,"he added.So far the team can only split themselves into two teams for scimmages, but according to the coach they play at a high intensity to test their potential.

The S-League is scheduled to kick off on Feb 9,just days after the curtain raiser which is the Charity Shield fixture between champions Tampines Rovers and Home United, winners of the RHB Singapore Cup on Feb 5. 

You know its a good day when you see Ivan Jerkovic at the Jerudong Park Mini Stadium.

The experienced Croatian midfielder is back in Brunei and there's only one reason for that:DPMM FC.

Though he played for DPMM for just one season - when they competed in the 2009/10 League campaign - that was all it took for him to capture the attention of thousands of fans with his composed passing,leadership skills and professionalism - attributes he still possesses.

As any football followers will know, DPMM FC won the Singapore League Cup in 2009 to lift the title and became the first foreign side to do so.

Ironically- some might say - he signed for SAF FC after that, and his performance at the most successful Singapore club has just been just as impressive- his stats are enough for another story of its own.

But now that the S-League season has ended, and so too Jerkovic's contract with the Singapore giants,it may be only a matter of time until DPMM resign him.

In an interview with the Brunei Times, Jerkovic sounded like he was itching to get back to Brunei - a land he said he enjoyed living in,especially since he was surrounded by players he loved playing with.

He can finally scratch that itch.

"I've been gone for exactly two years and its very nice to be back," he grinned after yesterday's training season.

"I have already had talks with the club management about my contract,but nothing has been confirmed yet.

But being back here  ...   I am really surprised with how the team are progressed! The players are all training hard under Simunic and I know they can improve more in the next two to three months," he added.

Though he has nothing to prove in Brunei, his work ethic during training looked like he was just another player on trial.

"I don't like to walk," he reasoned.

"I know what coach Simunic wants from his players - that they work hard.

"I do that, but I'm turning 33 next month, and I've played 33 games for SAF last season."

"I need a break so I'm going back to Croatia on Tuesday and I will be there until Jan3,"he said, adding that he hoped the club would make him put pen to paper before that.

DPMM's team manger was also just as impressive with Jerkovic's display yesterday.

"Yes, Isaw him train just now,"said Ali Hj Momin.

"He's playing like normal, he's always disciplined and always gives his best," he added.

Ask anyone who watched Jerkovic at the field yesterday and they will tell you the same thing. 

Football Association of Singapore(FAS) president Zainudin Nordin on Thursday met with S-League club chairmen to give an update on S-League version 2.0, for next year and beyond.

Along with proposed revisions, the club chairmen were warned that those who breach set guidelines and reveal confidential information to the media will be fined by the FAS.

The FAS will apply strict media guidelines from next season onwards.

Mr.Zainudin informed clubs that the next year S-League will see 14 teams compete in a two-round format, with Brunei side DPMM FC poised to join the competition alongside with Malaysia's Young Tigers.

A draw for next season's fixtures will be held for the first time in the history of the competition,with the league scheduled to kick-off on Feb 9, after the Charity Shield fixture between the champions Tampines Rovers and Home United,winners of the RHB Singapore Cup on Feb 5.

This year, an S-League fixture was screened live on TV every week on Friday.

This "live"screening will be changed to Thursday, with the S-League moving to a three-matchday format per week.

In an interesting turns of events, French side Etoille FC,who have yet to put pen to paper on their proposed plan for a clubhouse, have requested to be alowed to incluse six local players in their roster, with four of the six to play at any time.

It is understood that the Court Young Lions, who have yet to confirm their coaching staff or 25-man player roster, will not participate in the RHB Singapore Cup 2012.

It was revealed earlier that the FAS would remove the S$10,000 salary cap for a marquee player who will not be subject to the S-League's mandatory beep test, with age and contract restrictions loosened on two young foreign players whose wages will be subsidised by the FAS, and Mr.Zainudin confirmed these changes with the club chairmen on Thursday.

While the FAS president did not announce the identity of the new S-League chief executive officer, it is believed the FAS will introduce the new chief over the next few days. 

Vjeran Simunic has plenty to be happy about.

The DPMM FC coach finally has all his players in his squad, a luxury the Croatian was not afforded until last week.

What this means is that the club can resume their twice-a-day training just like they did in 2009.The result of all their hard work, as any DPMM fan can remember, is that the club became the first foreign side to capture the Singapore League Cup.

Though Simunic has been training his men for the past two months, the Jerudong Mini Stadium only hosted the sessions in the evenings since many players hadn't received their releases from their employees- but now that is the thing of a past.

"Now we train twice a day from Monday to Thursday, while Friday and Saturday just in the evenings and Sunday we rest,"said Simunic yesterday.

"I now have my four players from the Armed Forces (MS ABDB)and four men from the Under-23 squad.The only one I don't have is Adi Said,who will be playing for the Under-21 team for the HB Trophy.

"I really want to thank my players for all their sacrifice they have put before this ... Coming in from work and going straight to training.

"I am happy that we were able to convince striker Abu bakar Mahari - who some have called Samuel Eto'o of Tutong - to get back playing football.

He suffered a badknee injury and he wanted to end his career,but he's now back in the team training slowly ... He will be training with the full team by next year.

"I think right now we are 75 percent and we have the time to 100 percen," said Simunic.

Simunic however warned that it wouldn't be easy for the team to enjoy the same kind of success they did in 2009.

FIFA's two-year suspension on Brunei,which was only lifted in May, menat DPMM have not played a competitive game since September,2009.

Understandably,much has changed since then.

"As you know football in Asia develops every month,so it won't be easy for us.We haven't played for two years," noted the former Bahrain coach.

"Even Barcelona would find it hard to be competitive if they hadn't played for two years! I am thankful that most of the players are not injured and I pray they will stay in good form.

"I dearly miss captain Pg Sallehuddin.He is my right hand man, along with assistant coach Norilham. Salleh is inured but he has been with us everyday.

"Like all my other players, he has been hungry to startplaying again.He didn't do too much off-the-ball training and he injured his knee, but he should be fit soon."

Simunic might be happy with the club's recent progress but there's one thing that bugs him.

"All my players keep asking when's the next friendly.They're like lions in a cage - they want to get loose." 

The 2012 Great Eastern-Yeo's S-League season was dealt a blow on Thursday with news that French outfit Etoile FC have pulled out.

Etoile are believed to be unhappy over the recent appointment of their former chairman Johan Gouttefangeas as the deputy chief executive officer of the S-League.

Allegations of unpaid bonuses,late payments of salaries, and an unfulfilled promise of a clubhouse dogged the 34-year old Frenchman's reign at Etoile which came to a sensational end in June last year.

With the new top-flight season in Singapore scheduled to start on February 9, it is believed that these issues coupled with other, as yet unspecified,financial concerns, have prompted Etoile's withdraw despite prolonged talks with the new S-League CEO Lim Chin. 

Earlier this week,Mr Lim had gone on record to say that he was confident of a resolution to the Etoile saga, stating that next Tuesday's S-League fixtures draw would feature the 2010 S-League title winners. 

The FA Sngapore hierarcgy will meet on Friday in an attempt to convince Etoile to reconsider, although ESPNSTAR.com understands that plans are already in place for the new domestic season to operate with 13 instead of 14 teams. 

Eamon Zayed looks set to head to brunei for a trial with recently reinstated Singapore S-League side Brunei DPMM.

Brunei is located in the island of Borneo and prior to playing in the S-League were members of the Malaysian Premier League.

In 2009, the club were banned from playing in overseas competitions after FIFA banned their football association for interferring in its affairs however this has now been lifted allowing the club to resume matters on the pitch.

The club recently added former Cork City and Ipswich midfielder George O'Callaghan to their ranks for the coming season and now have moved for Derry City striker Zayed.

The Irish born Libyan international has enjoyed his finest season to date in Ireland finishing top scorer with 23 goals as Derry finished third in the league and won the EA sports cup.

A notice on the club's official website confirmed that thr former Bray Wanderers striker would arrive on the 19th November for this trial. 

DPMM FC's search for their fourth import player continues with the Netherlands Mourad Besselink and Montenegro's Bogdan Bogdanovic slinging it out for the final remaining slot.

Both strikers, Besselink, who had six caps and three goals playing for the Dutch team, faces stiff competition from Bogdanovic, who used to captain his country's Under-20 side.

Unlike the other trio imports ho have signed - whose main job should be impressing Simunic -  Besselink and Bogdanovic, who have only been in Brunei are more worried about acclimatising to the weather.

A youth player for Vitesse Arnhem II, Besselink broke through the first team last year but came to the Sultanate for trial after failing to pen a deal.

"We couldn't agree on a contract ... I was a little bit tired of the Netherlands so my agent offered me and adventure in brunei," said the 21-year old hitman yesterday.

"I played for 20 minutes on Thursday and it was alright.Its just my sharpness was not there because I was still tired of the trip.I'm sure tomorrow I can play with the ball better, dribble well and score some goals - that's what I'm here for after all.

So far everything's great and I like being here.I'm of Moroccan descent and everything here is based around Islam,so its easy for me to be here," he added.

Bogdanovic was facing the same problem as Basselink, but was just as confident he would shine at the trial,which usually runs from 10 to 14 days.

The 22-year old forward has played for Montenegro at the Under-16, Under -17 and Under-19 levels and led his team out of the tunnel at the 2009 Mediterranean Games in Italy.

"I'm happy to be here but I'm not used the weather... I'm also tired of the trip," said Bogdanovic who aaded that he had more than 20 international goals to his name.

"I came from Montenegro and there the season is just changing and getting colder, but here its like summer all over again.

"But in the coming days,I will show my best. The coach(Simunic) is from croatia so its easy to communicate with him because we speak the same language, Serbian.

Also in town with Besselink is his agent,Abdul Halim.

The director of Offside Sports Management & Consultant is a familiar face at the Jerudong Mini Stadium and was found chatting with club manager Pg Waslimin Momin during yesterday's training.

The FIFA registered players agent was responsible for introducing strikers Oh Ddog Yi(Rep Korea),Atilio Caceres(Paraguay) and Alejandro Tobar(Chile) to the club,but Besselink is the first player Abdul halim brought to DPMM this year.

"First of all they have to have character," said Abdul Halim when asked what he looks for in a player.

"Secondly.technical ability.Most of my players are below the age of 28.I have partners in Europe and together we source players for trial," added Halim

The 2009 Singapore Legue Cup champions,DPMM FC are awaiting news from the Football Association of Singapore(FAS) on whether their application to rejoin the S-League will be successful, the answer which they only be expecting once the season ends on Nov,28. 

This week,ESPNSTAR.com picks DPMM FC's Brazilian striker Rodrigo Grahl as our Great Eastern-YEO's S-League Player to Watch.

DPMM FC have enjoyed an excellent start to their campaign since returning to the S-League and are currently top of the table, just ahead of Harimau Muda.

The 2012 season has been fairly open so far, with traditional giants Tampines Rovers, Home Utd and SAFFC enduring indirrent early form, while less-illustrious sides like Balestier Khalsa and Hougang Utd have made impressive starts.

However, the Bruneian outfit coached by Vjeran Simunic look the real deal, boating quality in all areas of the field.

In goal, they have Wardun Yuosf, who has established himself as one of the best shot-stoppers in the league, and he is ably protected by the imposing Tales dos Santos and his centre-back partner Shahrulrizal Rahman. 

Captain Rosmin Khamis provides plenty of grit in the middle of the park, while the playmaking duties are ably carried out by Croat Ivan Jerkovic, who has S-League experience from his time in SAFFC. 

Nonetheless, it is upfront where DPMM's main threat stems front, with Grahl part of a formidable attacking trio that includes Ghanaian Osman Bashiru and Bruneian shahrazen said.

Despite being 35 year old, Grahl still possesses a good burst of pace and exceptionally adept and making darting runs in behing opposition defences.

However, having honed his trade in the brazilian and Japanese top flights, it is his experience that is his most lethal weapon.

He analyses the game very well whenever he isn't directly involved with the play, and seems to be first to react whenever the ball drops in his vicinity. Already, he has shown signs of a strong understanding with Osman and has displayed his lethal finishing ability on a number of occasions.

This was best exemplified in DPMM's 1-1 draw with Harimau Muda on March 22nd when he submitted his contender for the goal of the season. Racing onto a long ball on the left hand side of the box and without even taking a look up, Grahl swung his left boot at the ball and unleashed a ferocious shot into the top corner,leaving Young Tigers goalie Izham Termizi rooted to the spot.

This week, DPMM entertain basement side Young Lions, who just only picked up their first point of the campaign last Sunday against Balestier Khalsa. With Robin Chitrakar's young charges short on experience, Grahl could just be the man to put them to the sword.

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic is facing a race against time to get his players fit.

Brunei's only professional club are eyeing a return to the S-League are awaiting a reply to an application they sent the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) two weeks ago.

He also has other worries on his mind.

His players can only make it to the club's base at the Jeruding Mini Stadium once a day, and some of them can't even it to training at all because of other commitments.

"We are getting better day to day at the moment we only train in the evening since the players are still working,at that too only around 5.30pm," he said last week.

"Maybe we will get approval from their employers to release them to train twice a day, morning and evening, once we get an answer from Singapore.

Our problem is that we don't have our full squad with us now. The Royal Brunei Armed Forces Sports Council (MS ABDB) have not released our players and we are still awaiting from guys from the Under-23 nationals.

But we have about 5 months and we are doing the best we can.

"We are doing a lot off-the -ball training to improve fitness and the players are all very happyto work. They have been neglected for so long and the most important for them is to get fit.

"I'm working differently for every player.Like Abu (striker Abu Bakar Mahari)for instance, he hasn't been traing for one year so he has different drills to go through.Once they are fit then they can show their skill with the ball. When will that be? Perhaps November or December ... The plan is to get all the players up to the same standard by that time.

"I'm not against the gym. I'll do it maybe once a week, but a footballer's natural environment is the field and you can see the atmosphere at training is great,: he said, acknowledging he does most of his strength training at the Mini Stadium. 

Among the new faces in the team are several Under-23 players, two of whom are striker Shahrazen's younger brothers Adi and ex-ABDB Md Amalul Ariffin Shah.

It is the host of older players that might come as a surprise though, with ex-national Abang Norsuhily Taha who is in his early 30's heading the list. Md Julremi Zaini, Md Hendra Azam and Ampuan Nurul Azami are also those who have been training with the club, the players formerly at Wijaya,QAF and Majra respectively.

"Like I said before, they must have the same kind of personality, ability and skill as our previous imports if not better," said Simunic. 

By now any local fans worth his- or her- salt should have heard that FIFA has fnally lifted its suspension on Brunei.

It was an isolation from international football which started on 30th September,2009 and only ended on Tuesday- a good 20 months later.

But what does this mean for the average follower of the beautiful game in the country?

DPMM FC is back in business.

Though it had nothing to do with them. Brunei's only professional club took the brunt of the beating when FIFA first revealed the suspension during its Executive Committee meeting in Brazil two long years ago.

Just months before in June, the side had become the first Bruneian football team in a decade to lift a major piece of silverware - the Singapore League Cup- while playing in their debut S-League campaign.

The silenced critics and naysayers alike with a gritty 4-3 penalty shootout win against Singapore Armed Forces FC, the result marking them out as the first foreign team to lift a trophy in Singapore football.

They only have five S-League games left in the season but whn FIFA announced the suspension, it spelt the end of the fairy tale.

FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke sent a letter saying that the club could not play in the S-League, and the Football Association Singapore's (FAS) hands were tied.

The world governing body had earlier given written approval that DPMM FC would be able to play in the 2009 season, so FAS was just disappointed that the club could not finish what the had started.

But now that Brunei is back on the global stage under the auspices of the National Football Association Brunei Darussalam (NFABD), DPMM is eyeing a return to competitive football.

"The S-League has always been waiting for DPMM FC," said acting club manager Pg Waslimin on Tuesday after hearing that the suspension was lifted. 

"They hope that we can come back...Will we come back? I'm not sure right now-its too early to tell.

"I know the club's website says we have few players coming for trials this month,but nothing is confirmed yet, we'll have to wait and see.

"The team has always been training twice a week under coaches Norilham Jais and Hj Zainol Ariffin," he added.

Getting the players match-fit is not a problem; since all the players are playing currently in the DST Premier League playing in their respective teams.

The players should all be breathing a sigh of relief that they will be able to suit up in the black and red of DPMM FC, putting to bed a nightmare which started in November,2008 when the former ruling body for the sport in the Sultanate,BAFA was deregistered by the Registrar of Societies for failing to submit its activity and financial reports as requested.

Pg Waslimin was relieved that the club - and country- can finally start thinking about competitive football again.

"I would like to say thank you to FIFA for lifting the suspension on Brunei," he said.

"Now we have to make full use of this to develop Brunei football and compete abroad once again.

"To all the fans, thank you for helping get Brunei back into the international football arena." 

DPMM FC will be looking to the Sultanate's U-23 team for some much needed players after revealed that there is currently insufficient number of players in the team due to the exclusion of the ABDB for this season for some reason

The DPMM coach also used the opportunity to voice the need for more practice opponents to keep things fresh and interesting for his squad.

"We play with this team(ABDB) every time; the motivation isn't there becuase we keep playing with the same opponent.We need opponents from maybe another country or something," said Simunic.

"But with that siad the training is fine.The players still run for the ball and fight for the ball as they should," he added.

The veteran Croatian is currently preparing the team in hopes of particpating in the Singapore League that will start early March next year.

Asked what he and the team has to improve on, the coach replied, "We're going to continue to bring the fitness level higher; we're going to focus or not letting the players slip in form but raise in the area.

"Having just a day off in a week, we will train six times a week.Also maybe on Wednesday, we'll look to play another game with the U-23 squad and maybe on Saturday with this(ABDB) again," he said.

Playing against ABDB yesterday he said,"We only played 58 minutes; it was not a football match.So next time we have to be more punctual as the prayer times would stop us from play,"he said ,adding that given to the situation,the players weren't fully up to the standards he expected.

"Even in this situation, the players are very tired.We have not had any training with the ball so we missed some good chances," said the coach.

"They are still not comfortable with the ball, they would need to work hard to get comfortable."

DPMM have about few names of their U-23 squad and few from the U-21 side that are already targeted by DPMM but time will tell whether they will be selected for the S-League this season. 

It's hardly breaking news that DPMM FC players are raring for a return to the Singapore League (S-League).

Club manager Pg WasliminMomin tell the Brunei Times that Brunei's most successful football club have applied to rejoin the S-League after submitting their application to the Football Association of Singapore(FAS)earlier in the week, a move, if successful, will reunite DPMM FC with the league they took by storm in 2009.

Despite clubs from Japan(Albirex Niigata) and Etoille(France) also playing in the S-League, it was Brunei's only professional club that became the first foreign team to win a trophy in Singapore when they claimed the League Cup in their debut season in 2009.

Hj Muhd Subhi Abdillah Bakir, a key cog in Simunic's midfield, is itching to lace up in Singapore again. "Of course its a great ideafor us to play there againlike before," he told the Brunei Times before.

"we've been resting for a long timeso I hope we can get back and I think there's a big possibility we will.We have been out for competition for nearly two years so we all can't wait to get started.Now that FIFA lifted the suspensionit will good for Brunei footballers to get back to playing international football and improve our standard.

"All of us support the decision to bring Simunic back.We would support any coach the club bring in but Simunic has helped us to achieve something.The players are all in-tune with his training,strategy and formation ... Though training might be hard,its for the good of the club and the players," added Hj Muhd Subhi.

He has been in firn form in the domestic league, helping Majra FC claim the DST Group League Cup in June.

"I'm happy to hear the news and hope it works.It is a very good league which is well organised and has really professional players and they are also more open," said Wardun.

"I also support the decision to bring Simunic since he led the club to a trophy.It's a better idea to bring in new players and new faces instead of a new coach,"he noted.

The team's striker, Shahrazen Said, felt that amove to the S-League with Simunic marked the club's natural progression after the FIFA suspension was lifted.

"It's a good idea.Its east for us to communicate with Simunic and he knows our style of play ... We're like family.We've been enjoy returning to training and we have really started preparing hard for the league," said Shahrazen.

Another player who had been enjoy working hard with Simunic again is Hardi Bujang.

'For me,its a good idea to bring him back becuase it we get another coach we need to learn his style all over again," he said.

"He has been concentrating on fitness during training and we're running a lot,"he added.

Currently in its 16th season,Singapore's top-flight is scheduled to end on Nov 28 though hopefully DPMM FC won't have to wait until then to find out if they can play.

DPMM FC is on the verge of signing defender Tales Ricarte dos Santos and midfielder George O'Callaghan.

27 year old Tales,is a defender last played for Tocantinopolis and plays regularly in the Serie D in Brazil, while George O'Callaghan,32 played in Ipswich in the 2007/8 season and was at Tranmere during the 2008/9 season before transferring to Yeovil Town and played 12 matches there. 

They took local football by storm in 2009, becoming the first foreign team to win a trophy in Singapore when they bagged the League Cup.

Brunei's DPMM FC were in the running for the S-League title as well that year, but were prevented from achieving a historic double after FIFA banned the national association of the sultanate, which forced Singapore to kick the club out before they could complete their final five games of the season.

Now, after a year in the football wilderness, DPMM are looking to make a return in Singapore.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a souce of Brunei told  Today: "DPMM have already submitted their application to the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) and are awaiting a response from them."

The possible comeback of DPMM increases the possibility radical changes could be in store of the S-League, starting next season.

Currently the Great Eastern-Yeo S-League season features 12  teams playing three rounds.

One possible change could see 14 teams battling on a home and away basis.

When contatced yesterday,FAS deputy director of marketing and competitions, Ridzal Saat said: "There has been a lot of talk about the league expanding and also new teams joining the S-League. We will take into consideration every aspect on how we can improve the league as a whole.

"One such area os our S-League online survey ... as we seek to gather feedback from fans in preparation for the 2012 season. If there are changes, we will update the public swiftly."

FIFA banned Brunei from all football activities in 2009, deeming there was government interference the workings of the Brunei Football Association.

The body was reorganised and named the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam and the country was reinstated by FIFA on May 30 this year.

A possible return by DPMM has created a stir in local football circles.

The SAFFC were the main beneficiaries of DPMM's unceremonious exit in 2009 when they claimed the S-League title anc Warriors' coach Richard Bok said: "They were challenging for the title when they were forced to pull out, and they were a good side that made the league more exciting."

Gombak United chairman John Yap said: "They gave clubs a chance to experience a real away game with the hostile crowd in Brunei, and they were a credit to themselves and...gave  an added dimension to the league."

Besides DPMM, Sembawang United, ateam backed by an anonymous busineeman, have also applied to join the S-League next season.

With the Malaysian Under-23 joining in the fray as well,both Bak and Yap back the idea of a 14-team, two round format for the S-League.

"It would be a positive thing if we can play two rounds with 14 or even up to 16 teams. It would see an increase in fan interest,and clubs can schedule our training programmes better," said Bok.

Said Yap: "It is not an ideal situation to have 12 teams in a three-round format; a straightforward home and away system will add to the sophistication of the league.

"It could also be important,especially considering Singapore's return to the Malaysian League next year. This may give fans something interesting to watch, and may bring them back to local stadiums."

Hamid Berguiga is back in RC Kouba. Indeed, a reliable source had revealed that the former striker will play at RCK next season after finding a common ground with Algerian officials who were in constant contact for several days.Moreover, Hamid is very interested to return to RCK after spending his time with the club during the 2007/8 season to bring his experience with the team which now played in Algerian 2nd division League.Hamid had agreed to meet the officials koubeens to sign a contract for two season.

The Football Association of Brunei Darussalam(BAFA) has been suspended by FIFA for governement interference in its affairs, soccer's world governing body said Wednesday.

"It started with a decision by the Brunei naive authorities to dissolve BAFA and to replace it with a new federation in December,2008," FIFA said in a statement.

The suspension which applies globally, means Brunei and it sclubs are unable to take part in international competitions.

One Brunei club, DPMM, currently plays in Singapore's S-League, but will no longer allowed to do so.

The suspension will only be lifted when BAFA is reinstated by the government.

FIFA's executive committee, meanwhile, said it was closely monitoring the situation within a number of other associations, including Iraq, Kuwait, Togo,El Salvador and Peru. 

Last night's league clash between DPMM and Tampines Rovers ended in  afrustrating 2-2 draw in a match which saw both teams enjoy their fair share of chances but fail to capitalise on them.

The result maintains the four point gap between the two sides, with Tampines still at second and DPMM two spots below at fourth- though the Bruneians are tied on points with Home United.

It was end to end action in the first few minutes with both teams scoring a goal a piece.

Striker Shahrazen Said provided DPMM with a dream start in their first home game in a more than a month when he netted with a low shot after receiving a cross from Algerian partner Abdel Hamid Berguiga in the third minute.

But the scores were level two minutes later when striker Hhairul Amri curled in a free-kick.

French defender Benoit Croissant brought down Croatian midfielder Ivan Jerkovic in the box in the 25th minute but no penalty was given. P.Pandian did not hesitated to point to the spot five minutes later though when Shariff Abdul Samat was judged to have handled the ball in the area - though curiously enough he was shown a card.

Croatian midfielder Ivan Jerkovic made no mistake with the ensuing penalty kick, sending Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny the wrong way much to the fans' delight.

Tampines nearly equalised when Qiu Li's right footed volley from outside the box sailed just wide of the post and the other end, DPMM FC dfender Safari Wahit almost scored with a cheeky back-heel after receiving a pass from Jerkovic a minute later but Hassan was up to the task.

In the ensuing play,Shariff test DPMM goalkeeper Wardun Yussof three minutes later with a header off a free-kick in the 43rd minute.

Midfielder Aliff Shafaein tested Md Wardun three minutes later after the restart with a scalding free-kick from just outside the right touch-line, and though he was denied, Tampines found the goal they were looking for in the 53rd minute.

During a counter-attack, Li was judged to have been brought down in the box by captain Rosmin Khamis and Pandian once again pointed to the spot - with Khairul having no trouble scoring his second of the night. 

The loss of three key Tampines Rovers players hasn't diminished any of Vjeran Simunic's respect for DPMM's S-League opponets tonight.

The Hassanl Bolkiah Stadium will play host to the clash between Vorowan Chitavanich's second-placed Tampines and Simunic's DPMM whi loe to rungs below at fourth, with the gap between the two sides only four points - though the Bruneians have a game in hand.

Playing their first match without captain Fahrudin Mustafic who moved to Indonesian Super League side Persija Jakarta last week,the Stgs will also be without Ridhuan Mohamad who is now plying his trade for Arema Malang where he has joined Alam Shah.

But despite's the trio's absence, Simunic was adamant the Stage are still a force to be reckoned with, and that was proven by their ease at disposing off South Korean outfit Super Reds 3-1 in their last game to move within eight points of leaders SAF FC.

T say that the tie is a decisive one for both teams is an understatement especially since the game kicks off a run for three straight home games for DPMM and a win tonight wil surely serve as ample inspiration.

"Tampines for me is Singapore's most famous team," gushed Simunic when met last week.

"There have been three famous Singapore clubs in the last 10 or 15 years; Tampines league titleholders SAF and Home Utd- with Gombak making a name for themselves over the past 3 years.

"I know Tampines are hugry for a trophy since they have gone three years without one.

"I also know they will do everything they can to finish runners-up even if they can't win the league this year.

Their Chinese striker Qui Li, is a strong edition to their team and their goalkeeper Hassan Sunny Hassan Sunny olays for the national team and is one of the best goalkeepers in the area.

"They have also good players in defenders Benoit Crossant and Zulkarnaen Zainal, the latter plays for the national team," added the 53-year old mentor.

Though he had no qualms about ladling praise for tonight's opponents, Simunic was equally as willing to dish out complimets to his own players.

After winning four out of five of their league matches since the ban, Simunic feels that his players have done well to step up their game.

"Govic's fitness is improving everyday and he is playing well behind Algerian striker Abdel hamid Berguiga and Shahrazen Said.Tehy are playing very close to each other and have a good understanding," he said.

"Hardi is another crucial player for the team.His only problrm was fitness becuase he did not have a lot of time training for the start of the season, but he is alright.

"I am also seeing good changes in Azwan.

Touching on the fact that tonight's game will mark the team's return to the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium after more than a month - their last home game was on August 17 - Simunic was confident that the fans will flock to the 30,000-capacity venue. 

"After Hari Raya I am sure the people will be hungry for football,"said Simunic."We deserve 10000 fans and I am expecting that number.It has been a long time since we have played at home.Thie year , the people have been enjoying football in Bandar,and I am happy we have the most number of fane attending our games since the other teams only attract four or five thousand.

Only we play 3-5-2, all the other teans play 4-4-2, so it is very attacking football.Our target has always been a top five finish in our first season and very soon we will be sure of it," he added. 

Forced to compromise because of the lengthy bans handed down to all three first-choice defenders, DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic had nothing but priase for his players.

Arguably the side's darkest hour, the first half expulsion of the entire backline in the league on August 2nd had many thinking that DPMM's season is over.

But after winning four out of their five S-League games since the ban,Simunic feels that his players have done well to adjust.

Skipper Rosmin Khamis has won plaudits for his display at libero in the team's past two games, the experienced midfielder adjusting well to playing at the heart of defence replacing Rene Komar.

Playing as a defender for the first in his life when the team beat Balestier Khalsa, left winger  Sairol Sahri looked equally at ease slotting in for Pg Sallehuddin at leftback.

Right winger Hj Md Subhi and midfielder Suhaime Yusof have been doing an admirable job filling in for Yusof Salleh at right back, with Safari Wahit also making an impact on the right of defence.

"It was easy to convert Sairol and Rosmin into defenders," said Simunic yesterday.

"I am happy with all three players (Sairol,Romsin and Subhi), they are playing good," replied the coach when asked which player he was the most impressed with.

""Rosmin has the vision needed to play as libero ... He can see what is happening at front and at the back of defence.

"From right wing to right back and from left wing to left back, all their positions can be exchanged within the space of 10 metres - they know how to play compact," he added.

Another player who had made a name for himself the past few games has been midfielder Md Helmi Zambin, the 22-year old being taught now to play on either flank.

"Helmi is from the same group of players that came with us this 2009 season alongside with Abu Bakar,Safari and Suhaime - I trust them alot.

"Many times we have played without Hamid, Rene or Jerkovic but we have still come with good results.Little by little I am making what I have promised, a good squad of 18 players," he emphasises.

Two players who are seeing increased playing time are Hardi Bujang and his teammate in midfield, Croatian Drazen Govic.

Simunic said that their fitness is no longer a concern and both have played key parts in the team's recent run of good form.

The team has not been training for the past three days because of Hari Raya and Simunic was interviewed at the Empire Hotel and Country Club's pool, where he spends most of his afternoons. 

Drazen Govic's second goal in the league for DPMM FC couldn't have coame at a better time.

His striker in the fifth minute was all it took to fire the club to third in the league, and they are now one-point off second placed Tampines Rovers who they will face on Sept 29.

Though he scored the only goal against the Sinagpore Under-23 side, the Croatian was quick to shy away from praise despite earning the club just their third away win in the league.

"I am very happy about scoring beacase it was an important match for us- especially when we face Tampines next," said Govic after the match. 

"But for me, it is not important who scored, what matters is three points.

"I do admit the goal was important since it was the only one goal in the mTCH.

"Its good that we have won our last two away games but now we have three important home  matchesto play starting with Tampines," added the 28-year old midfielder who used to ply his trade at Croatia's first division club HNK Sibenik.

If Govic was feeling down to eartg about his performance last night, his coach was certainly cloud nine when asked to comment about his team's display.

"It is a fantastic result since we have picked up 12 points out of a possible 15," said DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic last night.

"Even in my dreams I never contiuing on picking up so many points since we are not playing our full team - it's like miracle!

"I expected a hard game and I was right, we have to fight from the first second to the last.

"The Young Lions are very strong and they came off good results lately with their new coach ... They attacked our last line all night and it was hard for us since we were playing without all out first-choice defenders," he added.

Simunic stated that he felt Young Lions captain,Obadin Aikhena was definitley their best player and that the Bruneians had troubled in the second half as a result of constant long balls to their 1.92 Chinese striker Yang Mun.

DPMM FC return to the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium after a break of more than a month when they face Tampines Rovers  13 days time can't come a much better time for DPMM.

They will be without the services of defender Safari Wahit since the right back was shown his fourth yellow last night was also substituted five minutes from time. 

Boosted by only their second away win in the league, DPMM FC will be taking to the synthetic grass of the Jalan Besar Stadium to prove that last Thursday's result against Balestier Khlasa was no fluke.

Facing the Young Lions, DPMM's head coach Vjeran Simunic feels there is something to that his men to prove.

With the Singapore League Cup champions sitting atop of the league three times this season, those lofty heights now look to be forgotten, largely in part due to their poor away form and bans handed own to all of their three first choice defenders.

They have seven games left in the league and their main target have always been in the top five finish.

"This will be a very interesting month, two months for our fans, and we need them to be united and with the team," said Simunic yesterday.

"Every point is crucial right now, and for me, a draw would not be a problem.

"We have a reputation as one of the favourite teams in the league and we must defend this reputation, despite the fact that half of the team has changed now.

"We have always to defend our position in the league and we will fight until the last minute to do so.

"The team have to play the best as possible.Anything can happen and our goal is still a Top 5 finish," stressed the 53-year old caoch.

Simunic said the team were boosted by the away win against Balestier, a significant result since they were playing new faces in defence.

The coach said he would stick to the same line-up in defence, with skipper Rosmin Khamis playing as libero and flanked by Sairol Sahri on the left and Safari Wahit on the right.

"Yes we are always confident after victory and especially more so after the Balestier game which we won with a new defensive line-up-so we have confidence with the defence," said Simunic.

"We need to be compact because now DPMM are a new team.

"For the first time in my career I am in this situation,having to convert midfielders and attackers into defenders.It is hard, but I have tried and I am very satisfied with what I have done in the last 15 days.

"It will be avery dangerous game against Young Lions and they are a team I always respect since they are the future national team.

"We always play a tough game against the Young Lions and I expect tonight's game to be the same," he added.

The coach added that none of his players were injured and that defender Suhaime Yussof had recovered from an ankle injury and would be on the bench for tonight's match.

DPMM FC picked up only their second away win of the league last night when they beat basement dwellers Balestier Khlasa at the Toa Payoh Stadium.

Incidentally, the Singapore League Cup champions first savoured S-League victory against the same opponents when they edged Balestier at the same venue on March,19th.

DPMM FC have Croatian Ivan Jerkovic to thank for the three points, the midfielder curling in two free-kicks and providing the decisive pass to Algerian striker,Abdel Hamid Berguiga for the second.

With the team facing all sorts of problems in defence heading into the match and losing their Singapore Cup tie aaginst Thai side, TTM Samut Sakhon 7-3 agreegate last month, their head coach said last night's victory was important.

"Like I predicted, it was a very hard, hard game,"said Vjeran Simunic yesterday.

"The win was great beacuse we were able to put our frustrating Singapore Cup campaign behind us.

"We were a little bit confused in the first few minutes,it was anew team, new defenders," said the 53-year old coach referring to the fact that the team's backline was composed of two midfielders playing as defenders.

"It was the first time in Sairol's life that he had played as a defender and I played Rosmin as a libero.

"But after we let in the goal, we became better and we were able to come back in the game and eventually win it," added the Croatian.

Before the match the Croatian tactician had warned his players to beware of Balestier's three imports strikers.

Jun Jin netted the opener for the hosts after a corner kick in the 22nd minute.

Jerkovic had earned a name for himself because of his vision and one such pass from the ex-Pelita Jaya player in the 62nd minute found Berguiga in space, with the 35-year old striker handing the Bruneians the lead after dribbling into the box and firing from close range.

The Croatian ensured the visitors of all three points when he scored an identical free kick in the 79th minute.

With DPMM FC's next game against the young Lions on Tuesday, Simunic said that his side have their work cut out for them, especially since the Singapore national team's coach Raddy Avramovic has now taken over the club's reins from Terry Pathmanathan 

They may be down but definitely not out.

DPMM FC's head coach Vjeran Simunic has promised that his team will do all they can to overcome a 3-1 deficit when they face Thai side TTM Samut Sakhon in the second leg of the RHB Singapore Cup quarterfinal clash at the Jurong West Stadium tonight.

Once again, Simunic has singled out his side's defences as their weaknesses - and rightly so.

Gaps in the team's backline saw Bekonbo dribble past two players in the 16th minute and score from inside the box to open the scoring in the first leg, with Safari Wahit not even attempting to tackle the striker.

All three of DPMM FC's first choice defenders will play no part in the rest of the season after receiving lengthy bans for pleading guilty to charges of violent conduct during their match against Home Utd.

"If you look at our past four games since we have lost the trio, we have let in 15 goals," said Simunic in a telephone interview yesterday. 

"Whatever it is, we will still go out there and try to perform our best against the Thais.

"I know our players will keep fighting I have to find the correct formation and defensive line.

"But our defence is not compact and Subhi and Suhaime are actually midfielders.

"The Thais are a very nice team but I am sure the scoreline in the first leg would not have been the same if we competed with our first choice back line.

"I might have to change our formation to 4-4-2 because we do not have the same players who are used to playing in our usual set-up," added the Croatian. 

Simunic said Safari is a doubt heading inot tonight's game since he had a flu.

Shahrazen is also not sure to play since he returned to Brunei after the first leg to be with his wife who is delivering his second child, and he is unsure whether the striker will be able to return in time for the second leg.

"But I have confidence in Abu and Hamid, so it is not a problem if Shahrazen does not play.

"If he comes to help us it will be good, but if not we can still manage to make a team without him," added the 53-year old coach.

Abu scored the goal which pulled the Bruneians back to 2-1 in the first leg after receiving a pass from Hamid, so Simunic's trust in the duo is not unfounded.

Brunei DPMM suffered a setback in their bid to lift the RHB Singapore Cup when they slumped to a 3-1 defeat to Thai team TMM Samut Sakhon in the 1st leg quarterfinal encounter at Stadium Jalan Besar Stadium last night.

 Following the 3-1 defeat, Brunei DPMM will be going into the 2nd leg with a two-goal deficit on Monday, Aug 31st at Jurong West Stadium. 

TTM Samut Sakhon's imports were on the mark, in a fiercely contested match-up. Paul Bekombo scored in which half while Aly Camara added another, a minute from the final whistle.

Paul Bekombo broke the deadlock on the 16th minute to take the lead for the Thais.

The missing trio of Rene Komar,Pg Sallehuddin and Yussof Salleh were dearly missed as DPMM were constantly under pressure by Bekombo and Camara.

After the interval, TTM Samut Sakhon stretched their lead to two goals thanks to the Cameroonian,Paul Bekombo.His second goal came on the 61st minute.

The match finally came alive when Abu Bakar Mahari pulled a goal back on the 76th minute when his effort beat goalkeeper Kritsakorn Kerdphon of TTM Samut Sakhon.

In search of an equaliser, Brunei DPMM's backline looked vulnerable on the 89th minute, TTM Samut Sakhon restored their two-gaol lead from Aly Camara to secure a two-goal advantage going into the second leg. 

DPMM FC will try to stop Thai side TTM Samut Sakhon from wrecking too much havoc with their passing game in their Singapore Cup first leg quarter-final at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore at 7.30 today.

A loss was the last thing on DPMM FC's head coach mind when interviewed yesterday,preferring to focus on tonight's opponents.

"I do not know much about team apart from the fact that they play very good passing game like every Thai side," said Vjeran Simunic

"But we will try our best to play our game and come up with a good performance.

"We do not know much about the team but we will know tgeir stregths after tomorrow's first leg.Until then we can only suppose,he added.

The Croatian said that of the knew things he knew about TTM Sakhon- one of the two Thai teams to have reached the quarters of the Sinagpore Cup and one of the non-Singaporean clubs to do so - was that they were champions of the Thai Premier League in 2005 and currently 9th on the league table.

Abdel Hamid Berguiga booked DPMM FC their berth in the last eight after the Algerian's goal in the 76th minute of their match against Pelita Jaya of Indonesia saw them record a surprise 1-0 win at Jalan Besar on April,29th.

"Yes,I remember that game," said Simunic about the result.I remember that goal too and I am expecting him to score again," added the head coach.

Simunic also said that Shahrazen will feature in tonight's game.

The striker did not play against Geylang Utd last week because his wife is expecting their second child.

Though she had not delivered yet, Shahrazen flew last night and will return to Brunei after tonight's first leg encounter and hopefully will be available for the second leg on Monday. 

Brunei DPMM failed to occupy the second spot in the league after they were beaten 4-3 by Geylang Utd at Bedok Stadium last night.

Playing firat out of their three matches away before facing Balestier Khalsa(September 10) and Young Lions five days after, DPMM were stunned as early as in the fourth minute by a Masrezwan Masturi's goal.

Geylang, who were playing without their Slovakian defender,Ratislav Belicak due to suspension added another goal in the 20th minute from Masrezwan, his second of the night.

With two goals down, DPMM coach Simunic substituted Azwan Salleh and brought in Abu Bakar Mahari in the 28th minute to sharpen his attacking upfront.

The change materialised after DPMM managed to close the gap in the 39th minute to make it 2-1 from Algerian Abdel Hamid Berguiga.

However, the celebration was cut short six minutes  later after Baihakki Kahizan scored for Geylang's third to make it 3-1 before halftime.

After the breather,Suhaime Yussof scored DPMM's second in the 64th minute before Safari Wahit levelled the make it 3-3 in the 79th minute.

DPMM's hope for at least bringing a vital point back  was shattered after Haafiz Rahim scored the winning goal in the 82nd minute. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic yesterday said that he considers tonight's opponents to be their toughest test as they prepare for a trio of crucial S-League games.

Brunei's only professional football side taking on Geylang Utd at the Bedok Stadium at 7.45 pm and a win will see their advantage over the Eagle soar to 12 points.

They will face Balestier Khalsa on Sept 10 and the Young Lions 5 days later.

"They are always important games but I feel that Geylang will be the most important," said Simunic yesterday.

"They are a good team, one of the big four in Singapore and have the won the league before so I have a lot of respect for them.They have few new players in the side now and their team have changed quite a bit, so we will see what will happen.

"As usual, we will try our best - but we should not expect another miracle," he said, an obvious reference to the Super Reds game when the team scored twice in the last 5 minutes to steal three points.

But if they are to repeat that feat again, they cannot rely on the services of their talismanic striker Md Shahrazen for the goals.

The 2006/7 top-scorer of the MSL season did not fly with the team to Singapore since his wife is due to give birth to their second child this week.

Influential winger Sairol Sahri also might not play since Simunic said he is till recovering from a shoulder injury he picked up during the Woodlands game.

"If I have a full team it would be easy to challenge for the first or second spot," grumbled Simunic.

"Sairol is still a doubt and we will decide tomorrow to play him, but I am hoping to use him for one half.

"I do not understand Shahrazen's decision not to folow us but I respect it," he added.

But the Bruneians know they have their work cout out for them since the Eagles have not lost at home their 3-0 defeat to SAF on May,24th.

DPMM will be encouraged by the news Geylang's Slovakian defender Ratislanv Belicak will palay no part in tonight's game due to suspension.

"We are going to miss.He controls the backline really well and there will be some reshuffling," admitted Geylang's head coach Mike Wong on the S-League website.

"In trial games we have experimented a bit and we've found that the three we will be playing there at the back against DPMM, Haruki, Walid and Adrian Dhanaraj, are the best combination." 

DPMM FC's fighting spirit is well and truly alive.

Down twice last niht against Super Reds, the National Stasium came alive in the second half to encourage their beloved DPMM to a 3-2 win against the Kouth Korean outfit - who have now ended their six-game winning streak.

The Bruneians now sit second in the league with 43 points, 12 points behind SAF FC.

"We were close to losing this game but we managed to turn it around, am I am really happy with our defenders - many of whom were playing for the first time in their positions," said DPMM's head coach Vjeran Simunic. "We have been unbeaten in this stadium for one year and three months beacuase I do not acccept our 6-1 defeat to Home Utd."

The Singapore League Cup champions always knew they were in for a fight against last season's runners-up, especially since all three of their first choice defenders were handed lengthy bans by the Football Association Singapore(FAS) this week after the trio admitted to charges if violent conduct during thr match against Home Utd.

And with DPMM ex-midfielder Jeon Kyeong Joon coaching the side, the Bruneaians knew they had their work cout out for them.

Their fears were confirmed as early as the seventh minute when the Super Reds captain Yu Hyun-Koo netted after connecting a cross from the right to score a low shot inside the box past Wardun.

One of the positives of the first half, and indeed the whole game, was left back Suhaime Yusof the former MS ABDB player, coming up with numerous convincing tackles and surging runs forward.

A menace on the left, the snealy South Korean midfielder Kwon Jin's through pass to Park Han Seok saw Wardun produce a fine save in the 20th minute, doing well to block a second shot after he parried the ball to another Super Reds player.

The Super Reds' pace was causing problems all night long for DPMM and the home side found it hard to find a way through their defence  - prompting Simunic to substitute defensive midfielder Hardi Bujang for the elegant Algerian striker, Abdel Hamid Berguiga just before the break.

He had an immediate impact, delivering a quality cross inot the box just seconds after his introduction.

Replacing the injured Sairol Sahri, Helmi Zambin justified Simunic's trust in him by scoring his first goal of the season just after the hour mark after a throw-in on the left by Azwan.

Helmi effortlessly glided past his first defender and unleashed a shot which bounced off another.

Unfortunately for Knag Su Ho in between the psts, the ball landed straight at Helmi, who netted a powerful low shot to the right.

DPMM's joy was shortlived though as Choi Dong Soo handed the Super Reds the lead in the 70th minute when he took advantage of some atrocious marking inside the box to home a Yu free-kick on the right.

Looking defeated, a few of the home fans started trickle out of the stadium thinking that the match was over - especially considering how their team were playing.But it was 2-2 in the 85th minute when Berguiga towered over the entire Super Reds defence to head home from close range after a superb cross-field pass from an unmarked Suhaime.

With the tides now turned and mistakes creeping into the Super Reds game, the stadium took on a single voice of its own and their chanting urged their team on.

Their hoarse throats were justified when Safari Wahit was first to the ball during a scramble in the box three minutes later, the centre back scoring his second goal in as many games and working the crowd even more into a frenzy. 

DPMM FC are closer than ever to make return to the Singapore League (S-League)

The club revealed the good news yesterday- telling the Press than the Asian Football Confederation(AFC) had given the team the green light to play in the S-League next season.

In a letter to the National Football Association Brunei Darussalam(NFABD), the confederation stated that the AFC had "no issues" with DPMM joining the S-League.

The team were within a range of making it a double in the league with the FA Cup but FIFA's suspension menat the club had their cmapaign ended with five games to go.

FIFA reversed its decision in May and Vjeran Simunic was revealed to have penned a new contract last month, The Croatian coach returning to the side he led the League Cup success.

With his vast experience Simunic, who was previously in charge of the side for 17 months until October,2009, is slowly rebuilding the team and things have been progressing well at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

"My first job is to bring the local players to level they were two years ago.It is not easy since they haven't had any competitions for two years," said Simunic in an interview during training session at the Jerudong mini Stadium yesterday.

"They are all very committed and making sacrifices to turn up for training.We're also working hard on improving on their fitness," he added.

"The only problem now is now we haven't got strong opponents to test the team.But we are loking forward to getting some tough games with the weeks to come," concluded the Croatian. 

DPMM FC head coqch Vjeran Simunic has issued a warning tot the rest of the teams in the S-League on the eve of DPMM's match against Super Reds at the National Stadium tonight.

They might not have three of their first choice defenders for the rest of their campaign but the other sides in the 11-team league will be ill-advised to consider the Bruneians' season over.

The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) handed the club a devastating blow last Thursday when it banned Croatian libero Rene Komar for 15 months, captain Pg Sallehuddin Damit for a year and defender Yusof Salleh for six months after the trio admitted to charges of violent condux=ct during the league match on the 2nd August.Simunic beleives it is the dawn of the new era of the club.

"I want to tell something to all the teams in the league,when you lose three defenders you cannot play serious football," said the Croatian when he met team's training session yesterday.

"Many teams expect us to go down and though we might have our problems off the pitch, what has happened has happened, and from that Woodlands game we are going to start anew.

"It was bad luck we lost all three first choice defenders since we play a 3-5-2 formation I would rather lose a striker or a midfielder.

"But like I said before, I want to make a squad of 18 good players

"We have changed after the Woodlands game, many people have said it has been one of our best," added the Croatian. 

"So I promise now, we will fight for every game and ignore what has happened in the past.Our target is still a Top Five finish," he emphasised.

According to the 53-year old coach, the key to victory against the Rams was the pressure that the side's two strikers applied on their opponents' two centre-backs which prevented the rest of the team from pushing up.

Simunic added that the team had working hard to convert right winger Hj Subhi Abdillah and defender Suhaime Yusof into a right back and left back respectively.

He aslo explained that Croatian midfielder Drazen Govic have been taxed too much during the Woodlands game and might not recover to start tonight.

Left winger Sairol Saari is aslo doubtful after picking up an ankle injury during training, so Simunic expects the bench to step up once again.

As for his comments on the South Korean side, he warned his players to give last year's S-League runners-up the respect they deserve.

"The Super Reds are a strong team,real professions who provide a good fight and play much better in the second half.

"I am sure they are coming here for a win," he added.

So the solution

"So we must run the whole match and fight the whole match ... Start 200 percent and finish 200 percent!," he said. 

DPMM's defensive spine have been handed long bans from the S-League and all FAS-sanctioned competitions beacause of their violent conduct during the team's S-League's match against Home United on August 2nd.

According to a Press Release by the FAS last night, the FAS Disciplinary Committee handed Croatian libero Rene Komar a staggering 15-month ban, with captain Pg Sallehuddin facing a year-long ban and right back Yusof Salleh forced out action for six months.

After Pg Sallehuddin was shown his second yellow for dissent just seconds after receiving his first for whar referee K.Kalimuthu judged was a foul on a Home United player in the 39th minute, the game was stopped for nealry half an hour after certian DPMM players aggressively confronted the referee.

Though he wanted to abandon the match, Kalimuthu decied to playon, but only after Rene and Salleh were shown their marching orders as well since he thought they inverstigated the fight.

The FAS announced last Friday that it was charging the trio for bringing the game into disrepute-  facing charges fro violent conduct against Kalimuthu.

The three players all admitted to the charges against them, though they were not present to the hearing.

Komar admitted to the charge of violent conduct when he confronted Kalimuthu, manhandled and punched him.

Pg Sallehuddin admitted to the conduct when he confronted Kalimuthu in an aggressive and threatening  manner and shoved the ref.

Yusof also admitted to violent when he confronted and mishandled him.

The FAS' statement told the trio can appeal the decision within 7 days.

The ruling goes to prove how fast things can change in football.

Leading the league in three different times, confidence was riding high and they even had their eye on a treble - hoping to win the s-League and the Singapore cup as well.

But after yesterday's nightmare, it will now take a miracle for DPMM to turn that dream into reality. 

DPMM FC shrugged off the loss of half of their first eleven players to beat Woodlands Wellington 2-0 in the league last night.

Drazen Govic's second match at the National Stadium was a night to remember, the newly signed Croatian midfielder opeened his account with a shot from outisde the box in the first minute.

Playing without goalkeeper Wardun Yuosf, midfielder Rosmin Khamis and Algerian striker,Abdel Hamid Berguiga, the fans might have been fooled into thinking that the DPMM side that started last night would be playing second fiddle to the Rams.

But that was definitely not the scenario, a face which was emphasised after Govic's goal stunned the crowd of 4,372 - most of whom were still finding the seats when the 28-year old player netted.

Libero Safari Wahit scored the team's second in the 53rd minute, taking advantage of a confusion in the box to poke the ball home after a Hardi Bujang corner from the left.

"We played wonderful tonight!200%! We could have destroyed Woodlands:, enthused DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic."

"I promised that Govic would be a success and now look what happened.

"I want to thank the fans who made it today to support the team.I can see a lot havr not come today, maybe they thought we would have let in six goals again," added the Croatian.

The Bruneians dominated most of the game, with left winger Sairol Saari an important contributor to the side after passing a late medical test.

Sending in several crosses inot the box and regularly earning corners during his numerous forays down the left flank, the winger was really a headache for Woodlands in the half.

Hemi Zambin had a chance to net in the 27th minute but his shot inside the box after striker Md Shahrazen had pulled the ball back produced a good save from Rezal Hasan.

Ivan Jerkovic tested Rezal in the 41st minute with a curling free-kick while the goalkeeper parried away to safety in the last action of the half.

The Croatian's midfielder's long range attempt in the 52nd minute off a corner saw Rezal box the ball out for another corner, with Safari scoring seconds later.

The game shifted down a few gears in the latter stages, with fatogue taking its toll on both teams.

The Bruneians started to rely on their short passing game to work the ball around, their one twos delighted the crowd.

Despite DPMM's best effort to find the gap in the Woodlands defence again, Daniel Hammond marshalled the back four to perfection after Safari's goal and he was invicible in the air.

Simunic has admitted that Govic is not yet fully fit, his his passes to create space and aerial ball winning ability marked him out as a player to watch out for. 

With five of their first eleven not available for selection, DPMM FC 's league match against Woodlands tonight will force the team's fringe players to pick up the slack.

Not only are captain Pg Sallehuddin and defenders Rene Komar and Yuosf Salleh out suspended since the trio were shown red cards during last week's game,midfielder Rosmin Khamis will also paly no part in tonight's game after picking up his fourth yellow card of the season.

Striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga is back in Algeria to celebrate his engagement.

"What can I say?I just promise that we will fight," said a resigned DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic when met during the team's training session at the National Stadium yesterday.

"All the hard work of one year was lost in 29 minutes, but I have nothing to say about the referee," added Simunic, referring to Kalimuthu's decision to send the entire back line to an earley shower after they were judged to have instigated a fight during the game against the Home United team.

A Press release by the Football Association of Singapore(FAS) yesterday stated that Pg Sallehuddin,Yusof  and Komar face charges for violent conduct against the referee, and the FAS Disciplinary Committee will convene on Thursday to hear the case. The gloomy atmosphere surrounding yesterday's training session did not seem to affect right winger,Hj Subhi Abdillah Bakir, who was one of the players willing to talk to the Press.

The captain for tonight's midfielder will replace Yusof Salleh as right back."This is the furst time I am playing in this position.It will be hard for the whole team since we are missing many key players,"said Hj Subhi.

"We will be up against a full strength Woodlands but we promise them to give a food fight," he vowed.Safari will deputise for Komar as libero while Suhaimi will take the place of Salleh on left back.

Azwan Salleh and Hardi are expected to play in the centre while Md Maududi and Helmi Zambin will serve as left winger and right winger respectively.

Thought they are going into the match without a number of players,DPMM will be thanking their lucky stars that influential midfielder Ivan Jerkovic is not one of them.

The Croatian came back from a month-long absence due to an appendix operation on July 18th."Many of our players are not here but what can we do?"asked Jerkovic."Nothing, Just try our best-the same thing we do every game.

"I feel very good after the operation and I did not think I could recover first.There is no pain in the stomach ... the doctor did a good job," he added.

His compatriot and the club's newest signingDrazen Govic was equally as positive when met yesterday.

"I think we showed that we are the better team in the first 39 minutes against Home Utd and now we have to show how strong we are without the key players," said the striker.

"We must try our best to get three points and it is important since Tampines are now second and we need to catch up with them.

"I think I am fititng in well with the team and as for my partnership with Shahrazen,i think once you know how to play football you can play anywhere.It is no problem," added the 28-year old player who used to ply his trade at Croatia's first division club HNK Sibenik.

To some in the DPMM camp, Sunday's night 6-1 loss to Home Utd in the league is part of a big scheme to see them fail.

Red cards shown to all three defenders in the 39th minute nearly led to fan riot at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium. The supporters then went on to pelt the referee and Home players with bottles and abuse as they entered the tunnel at the half time break and again later when the game ended. 

Soon after DPMM skipper Pg Sallehuddin Damit was shown his second yellow for dissent, his teammates surged towards referee K.Kalimuthu in protest and it resulted in an aggressive confrontation.

Kalimuthu believed it was Rene Komar and Yusof Salleh that started the mess, and after deliberating for nearly half an hour, reached a compromise with club and match officials that the game can only be resumed if the libero and the right back followed the DPMM's left back to the dressing room.

Indiscipline by certain players was given as the reason refress Kalimuthu had to send off the entire back line, but Komar felt that was not the case.

"The sending off was ok, but three cards? There were pushes and bad words, so ok.But all the things that led to that?Salleh's  foul?Funny - a yellow card for a foul that does not exist," said Komar.

"Red to our captain for complaining.If he cannot complain then who can"The referee was on a mission to destroy us, not one game but for the rest of the season," he added.

"The referee is a disgrace and a thief.This is the biggest shame of refereeing in history.Even before he showed his card to Salleh, he showed his intention to kill us," said the Croation.

"Put his picture up and question his ethic and moral.You can already see the pattern that he gave many wrong decisions before the red cards.He was on a mission to kill our team and he made an excellent job,"

Pg Sallehuddin also mirrored his teammates views.

"I actually did nothing but I just stood firm next to the referee afrer the first yellow card," he said.

"Then I realised that he put his hand in his pocket and gave me a second yellow.I can see that the referee is one-sided," he added during the halftime break.

Home head coach PN Sivaji was pleased with Sunday's win, but admitted that the triple sacking took some gloss off their performance.

"The game started off looking very good as both sides played competitively," Sivaji told the S-League website. "DPMM had their chances, but we hold on preety well. In truth the game could have gone either way.

"But the red cards became a deciding factor.It took out the pleasure of the game, and it was unfortunate for this to happen, but our boys responded very well after the break."

His counterpart Vjeran Simunic was -understandably - incensed with Kalimuthu's handling of the match, and he indignantly claimed his team did not deserve the defeat.

"I have never seen that referee in my life before, I don't know where they got him from," said the DPMM head coach after the match.

"But even without three players, we showed we are a good team and were definitely a better side in the first 45 minutes," added Simunic. 

If their victory in the competition was the club's greatest moments, then Sunday's defeat which shattered their undefeated home record that had stood for a long time is definitely their darkest. 

Three in one to go,

Having already applied to rejoin the Singapore League, DPMM FC are working hard to rebuild the squad - confirming on Thursday that they have signed three imports.

The club,who said last month they "are on the verge of signing defender Tales Ricarte and George O'Callaghan",unveiled thw two players to the Press on Thursday, adding that they had already signed striker Osman Bashiru.

Having said earlierthey were looking to sign four imports,DPMM FC were working hard to find another player - most probably another forward - and several foreign players were on trial with the team this week.

Talking to the press, the 32 year old O'Callaghan feels that the club are heading in the direction in terms of preparation.

"We're working hard in training and things are exciting here beacuse it is a new challenge," said the Irish attacking midfielder after a training session last Thursday.

"Things are looking positiveand I can see the local players are quite fit.We are working hard to get in shape and show our talent when competition comes," he added.

O'Callaghan played at Ipswich in the 2007/8 season and feature for Tranmere the following season before transferring to Yeovil Town, where he laced up 12 matches.

On the other hand, Tales last played for Tocantinopolis and the Brazilian regularly featured in the Serie D in Brazil.

He wants to help the team to the ultimate prize and feels that things are looking for up for Brunei's only professional football side.

"Training is really going well at the moment.I'm really looking forward to compete.We will work hard together and I'm definitely looking to help the team to a championship," said tales.

Asked about the difference between Brunei and Brazil,the 27-year old replied: "The weather is similar to brazil except that it rains here like everyday.But its peaceful here and I really enjoy that.The country is also very green and clean. 

Meanwhile Basiruplied his trade for four teamsin Israel before coming to Brunei - the last being Hapoel Petah Tikva.

The Ghanaian has quickly settled down and is enjoying his time here in the Sultanate.

Brunei is a beautiful country. I'm really enjoying training with my new teammates,"said the striker.

"I have no problems adapting to the weather and is quite similar to my country," added the 22-year old hitman.

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic meanwhile felt that the most important thing for the imports is for them to adjust quickly since it is the first time they were playing in Asia.

"We hope they will adjust as soon as possible. It requires time especially since this is the first time they were playing in Asia. In my experience, good players don't necessarily adapt instantly because it is not as easy thing to do," said Simunic.

"But we must be patient with them and we should be ready within the next few months,"he added.

"The only problem is that we haven't got any opponents to compete against.It is different against local teams as need tougher games to test the talent of imports," continued the Croatian.

"But we'll need the locals to be ready as well to help the imports,"concluded Simunic.

The next season S-League will begin around early March,2012 and the club will be eager to once again compete in the league after losing two years because of government interference problems in the football association. 

Home United went on a goal spree to bear hapless DPMM 6-1 after three DPMM defenders were red-carded for unsportsmanship conduct on referee K.Kalimuthu in the first half of the match yesterday.

DPMM's captain Pg Sallehuddin was red-carded in the 40th minute followed by Yusof Salleh and Rene Komar in the 41st minute.

Home United opened the floodgates in the 42nd minute through Valery Hick from a free-kick.DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic made a tactical change in  the second half by bringing in Suhaimi Yusof for Sairol Saari. However the change didn't work very well in the first seven minutes and Simunic made another change by bringing on Abu Bakar Mahari to replace Rosmin Khamis.

Few minutes later DPMM were down 2-0 with a goal scored by Ludovick in the 69th minute after Hj Md failed to make a clearance inside the penalty box. 

Ludovick once again scored in the 72nd minute before completing his hattrick a minute later.

Home United scored again in the 78th minute.DPMM's consolation goal was a penalty by Ivan Jerkovic after Helmi Zambin was brought down inside the penalty box.

Home United's Fadzuhasny scored in injury time to make the final score 6-1. 

DPMM FC might have felt robbed of a point during their 4-3 loss to Geylang United in Saturday's night league action, but at least they can take some positives away from their sixth loss of the season.

The Singapore League Cup champions came back from two goals down at halftime to even the score at 3-3 in the 79th minute with goals from defenders Suhaime Yusof and Safari Wahit - and it was all down to their formation.

But though substitute Hafiz Rahim would break their visitor's hearts in the 82nd minute when he scored from inside the penalty area after receiving a pass from Kim Jae Homg on the left by-line, it was the fact that the visitors gave the Eagles a run for their money that troubled their coach.

"I would have settled a point at that stage," admitted Mike Wong, referring when DPMM had tied the scores up.

"They changed tactics after the break and used the long ball which created problems for us and alowed them to come back into the game," he observed.

According to the S-League website, DPMM head coach Simunic claimed that his three men at the back were unable to contain the threat of Geylang - forcing him to switch to four at the back instead of three.

In his post match comments last night, the 53-year old Croatian said the defence was a big problem for the team once again since the players he had right now were inexperienced.

Despite those comments, credit has to be given to Safari, who has scored three goals as many games, and Suhaime, who was a menace all night long during the team's 3-2 win against the Super Reds and opened his account for the club with the equaliser last week.

Accustomed to playing 3-5-2 for the past few seasons, the new tactic worked - though the long ball ploy was a consequence of the decision.Simunic was adamant that it was his men who had the upper hand in the second half, creating more chances than their opponents but only managing to convert two of them.

Even the S-League's match report said that "the Eagles were let off the hook thanks to some wayward finishing by DPMM FC who scored twice, but probably could have had at tleast as many gaols had they been more composed in front of goals."

The side's stunning 3-2 come back from behind win against the Super Reds, where DPMM scored twice in the last five minutes to smuggle all three points, was also attributed to a change in tactics.

"I changed the formation 6 times during the match and we scored when we are playing four at the back,"said Simunic before the Geylang match. 

"It shows the team can rotate and play in different formations," added the Croatian.

Hopefully DPMM can show that same flexibility when they take on Thai side TTM Samut Sakhon in the Singapore Cup on Friday.

Then they face two crucial away games against Balestier Khalsa on Sept 10 and the Young Lions five days later. 

DPMM FC's new signing Drazen Govic will be making his home debut against Home United at thw Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium tonight.

Govic made his S-League debut against SAF FC last Thursday.

He played the whole 90 minutes and almost scored on his debut.If it wasn't for the SAF goalkeeper,Shahril Jantan who had to be at the full stretchto deny Govic,the Croatian hitman could have win the game against SAF.

Govic spent most of that game behind the other attacking players and was only pushed forward with intent only in the closing 20 minutes or so.

The attacking midfielder, who was signed from Croatain first division club HNK Sibenik, even managed to lay some nice passes while developing a keen understanding with his new teammates. 

DPMM head coach, Vjeran Simunic, is delighted with the performance of his new signing.

"At present, I'm very happy with Govic's performance. I believe that he will get better from game to game. Hopefully he can performa just like how he did against SAF or better tomorrow(Sunday)," said Simunic yesterday. 

The DPMM coach would like to see his new signing perform together with influential midfielder, Ivan Jerkovic.

Simunic also stressed the importance of winning tonight's home game.

"We have to win this game because we had two consecutive draws away from home against Gombak and SAF," said the Croatian coach.

He is also looking forward to keep their 100% home record intact and to put pressure on teams above them especially after 2nd placed Tampines were beaten 3-0 by Albirex on Thursday.

"I think we are in a comfortable positionwith Tampines losing their last game and they will have to face defending champions SAF tomorrow night(Sunday night)," added Simunic.

The Croatian coach expects tonight's game to be a tough one as every team will now want to take the first points from DPMM at their own stadium. 

"Our opponents are a string team and they inflicted us with our first loss of the season back in May but we were not a complete team back them as we were missing five key players. Sunday's game will be different as we will have a full squad.

"They have also good imports like Peres, the Brazilian who has scored seven goals," said Simunic.

"We may have got maximum points at home but then I think the team are tired as we have played a lot of games.We will have try our best and not allow our opponents to snatch any points."

"I hope we can put up a good performance for our fans," continued the 53-year old Croatian.

Simunic is also banking on the fans to come and support the team.

DPMM are currently placed fourth in their 12-team table on 37 points. 

Brunei DPMM FC's chances to climb up to third remains open if the players show thier best this Sunday.

That are the advice given by the team manager,Pg Waslimin when the team will be up against Home United this Sunday at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

"Our team only separated two points behind of Gombak Utd that already played 22 games.It is our chance to take their spot but the players have to work extra hard," said the team manager.

"We have to respect the visitors and definitely, they will have high hopes in getting a shock result," said the team manger.

PN Sivaji boys beat Sengkang Punggol 2-1 in their last game and will stick to their form and their confidence are even grow after they beat DPMM in their last encounter in Home Utd ground.

Whoever they play, Pg Waslimin have high hopes on the team to beat the guest team and also to revenge their defeat Home Utd in their last encounter.

Mnetioning on their team's progress, the team manger is happy with the goalkeeper,Wardun Yussof and showed a consistency performance in every game.

On the other hand, he also hopes the new midfielder,Drazen Govic will be able to work out much better with his teammates as communication is very important.

Drazen Govic replaces the Korean Og Ddog Yi, and made his debut against SAF FC last week.

"Although he is still new to the team, Govic has to work hard to know the team well. His performance in the previous game looks ok and it will be better if have better communication with the team," said Pg Waslimin.

With the standard of the team, Simunic has the ability to make small changes in the squad against the Sivaji boys and to keep the 100% win at home.

The midfield will be the major role with the combination of Jerkovic-Govic-Azwan-Rosmin will be seen as effective in tomorrow's game.

DPMM FC and Singapore league leaders, SAF FC played out to a 0-0 draw at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium in Singapore in what the Bruneians head coach said was a fair result for both sides.

The visitors could not notch their fourth win over the Singapore League Champions in their second league encounter of the season,but Vjeran Simunic said he was not too worried about picking up all three points after triumphing in their previous three matches.

"I am very satisfied with the draw since it is not easy to win against the best team in Singapore four times," said Simunic yesterday.

"I think it was a deserved draw for both sides.We have now become a nightmare for SAF since we won three times against them," added the Croatian.

Despite the draw, the defending champions continue to enjoy a nine point lead over DPMM, who remain fourth in the league.

As expected, the club's newest signing Drazen Govic made his debut in last night's match and Simunic said he was happy with 28-year old midfielder's display.

"He did all that I asked of him and I am pleased with his performance since he came without much preparation," said Simunic. "I an sure he will get better from game to game."

DPMM's next game is against Home Utd at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on Sunday. 

DPMM FC will he hoping for their fourth win over S-League leaders SAF FC when the two sides meet at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium tonight.

The defending champions enjoy a nine point lead over the Bruneians and DPMM knows how crucial tonight's match becuase of their poor form away from the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

DPMM have not managed an away win since their 1-0 result over Balestier Khlasa on March,19 picking up only 4 points in their last 8 away matches - an alarming statistic and that has to be changed if they want to keep in touch with the league leaders.

But the Warriors are aware that DPMM have been their bogey team in this season, losing their league encounter in Brunei 2-1 and falling to the same opponents twice in the League Cup, the second a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out loss in the final.

Because of this, DPMM's head coach believes the pressure is on the home team tonight.

"They are a dangerous team, the best in Singapore now," said Vjeran Simunic yesterday.

"They have a a lot of national players and it is not easy to beat them, but we have done it three times already and the pressure will be on them," he opined. 

Simunic confirmed that the club's newest signing, Drazen Govic will bake his debut on tonight's match, and the midfielder will play behind strikers Shahrazen Said and Abdel Hamid Berguiga.

Though he admitted the 28-year old Croatian might not be fuly fit, Simunic was confident that his compatriot would make an impact at the club.

"He is a little bit not on form because his arrival was rushed, but he is a professional and I have known him since I was in Croatia," said Simunic."I have kept all the promises I have made so far, and I promise he will be a good player for us."

Shahrazen scored two goals in the team's comeback 3-3 draw against Gombak last week but Simunic said he won't be worried if the striker cannot add to his seven goals.

"Shahrazen is on god form, the team's top scorer now, but for DPMM it is not important who scores - what is important is we create chances," said Simunic.

If they can do that,they will certainly give SAF's head coach more cuase for concern.

"They are a very disciplined side...)and they will certainly keep us on our toes," Richard Bok told the S-League website adding he was expecting DPMM to rely on quick counterattacks whenever they get the chance. 

Brunei DPMM FC's attacking force has been boosted with the new signing of Drazen Govic who will be featured in the upcoming match against SAF FC on Wednesday, July 29.

Following the release of Korean striker Oh Ddog Yi. Brunei DPMM roped in the 187 cm tall Govic after playing for Croatian's first division club, HNK Sibenik.

The signing of the attacking midfielder was finally completed the night before their match against Gombak Utd, and if the ITC had arrived 20 minutes earlier, he would have been featured in the Gombak game.

In an interview with the 28-year old Govic at the training ground yesterday, he said: "I am happy to be with DPMM and I hope I can help DPMM achieve great feat in the S-League."

"I just arrived in Brunei 15 days ago. I still need a bit of time adjusting to the style of the team.But I know that I will be fully prepared to face SAF FC on Wednesday."

The players in the team are fantastic. Brunei DPMM are a good team and we can achieve great things together," he added.

Govic and coach Simunic are actually no strangers.Govic played under Simunic around five years ago with Club Zadar.

On adapting to life in Brunei, he said: "Rene and Ivan helped me a lot to adjust myself to the life here. They have been great. I have been constantly communicating with the coach as well.So I feel at home already." 

With the team 2-0 down after an hour, thoughts of giving up were creeping into the mind of Shahrazen Said during their league match against Gombak Utd on Thursday which ended 3-3.

But after looking around the pitch at the Jurong West Stadium in Singapore and seeing the faces of his teammates the striker knew he had to keep fighting.He scored the goal which would make it 2-1 in the 71st minute and ana injury time equaliser to ensure that the Bruneians wouldn't leave Singapore with three sttraight defeats.

"If you ask me if I felt like giving up than yes, there were those feelings," admitted Shahrazen yesterday "The fighting spirit was still strong though, but the face of the rest of my teammates, I knew I had to keep going on.I could see that they still wanted to fight, they did not look like giving up.I didn't think I would score two goals though, that was good luck."

Cementing his status as the team's top scorer in the league with seven goals, Shahrazen hopes that Thursday's night display will usher in the form which made him one of the region's most feared strikers two years ago.

After getting praises from club supporters on the Internet, he's inspired to repeat his performance during the 2006/7 Malaysian Super League (MSL) season which saw him end the camapaign tied with another player with 21 goals. "I was really happy with the comments I have seen online which says that Thursday's performance reminded them of the 2006/7 season.I don't want to guarantee any numbers, but I know if I focus and put my mind to it eveything is possible.My partnership with Abdel Hamid - who scored Thursday's other goal - is very good.I think it is 90% of what we are capable of."

DPMM FC will face league leaders SAF FC on Wednesday, where Shahrazen will be up against league top-scorer with 18 goals, Aleksander Duric. 

DPMM FC came from behind to record a much needed 3-3 draw against Gombak United last night in  amatch which saw the Bruneians score all their goals in the last 20 minutes.

Trailing as early as the third minute after Nigerian, Emmanuele Emujeraye scored the first,the visitors found themselves down 2-0 in the 59th minute when compatriot Gabriel Obatola netted his first of two goals.

Undaunted, DPMM mounted a comeback and saw striker Shahrazen Said find the net in the 71st minute, with Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga levelling seven minutes later. However, a controversial penalty by Obatola saw Gombak take the lead in the 85th minute, only for Shahrazen to come to the team's rescue with a goal in injury time.

With Gombak just one point behind DPMM, the Croatian saw the draw was crucial in maintaining their position.

"I am absolutely happy with the result, very satisfied," said Simunic yesterday.

"Considering we did not have three important players, the result yesterday is like the same as a victory for me ... We should be proud.

"We wanted one point because we wanted to stay third, and Gombak are too good of a club to lose four straight games," added the head coach.

Praising his players for their never-say-die attitude despite trailing by two goals the 53-year old said that he was not impressed by the refereeing at the match which cost them all three points.

"I want to talk about his decision but I do not think I should. Maybe you should speak to the players and ask them what happened," said Simunic. 

Vjeran Simunic's boys have to be more cautious and to be in their best if they are to win the match tonight against Gombak in the Jurong West Stadium tonight.

Brunei DPMM and Gombak are only separated by a point and the clash tonight will be a big test for both teams.

On paper, DPMM have their advantages as they won their previous encounter but DPMM will miss three key players for this clash.

Rosmin Khamis got his marching orders in his last match against Albirex Niigata at home, while Pg Salehuddin, the skipper is suspended after receiving his fourth yellow in many matches.

"This clash will be a big test for us. But I am confident with high spirits, we will give a good challenge to upset the home team," said team manager,Pg Waslimin.

Meanwhile, the team manger also stressed that his players have to be more cautious and to retain their reputation as they are throughout the league to bring home full points.

He said, the league is in the mid-season now and the teams are getting tight now and DPMM have to be able to resist the opponents and be able to double their effort to win points.

With the three key players missing, Simunic has no wary in playing Gombak tonight, while the return of Jerkovic in midfield in the previous game, has made a big impact in mobilise the midfield and eventually scored the winner last week.

DPMM is still waiting for the International Transfer Certificate(ITC) of Drazen Govic who recently signed for DPMM.As of now, his ITC has not arrived yet to be eligible for this game.Simunic hopes that his ITC will arrive so that he could play for DPMM soon.

"If the players could keep their composure, the team will be able to bring back full points," said Pg Waslimin.

Meanwhile, Gombak Utd coach Darren Stewart has challenged his players to face their biggest test yet this season, as they head into tonight's match on the back of three consecutive losses.

"Facing up to these three losses is going to be the biggest test for all of us in the club.So the next game we've got will be tough,whoever it is against, although I'm sure DPMM will make it real easy," the 43-year old Australian Gombak coach told the sleague.com 

He may not be a striker but Croatian midfielder Ivan Jerkovic is ready to take over as DPMM FC's main hitman.

The top scorer for DPMM FC so far this season, Jerkovic, who has scored seven goals - four of them coming from the league and the other three in the League Cup - placed a perfect shot into the back of the Albirex Niigata's net on Saturday night to help the Bruneians sealed all three points.The 2-1 come from behind victory also helped DPMM keep their 100% home record intact.

"I'm definitely ready to carry the team.As a foreign player, I have to show and offer something different. Govic (the new striker expected to sign with DPMM this week) and Abdel Hamid will cause a lot of trouble for defenders but they will be tightly marked too.

"Take Saturday's match for example, Abdel Hamid was surrounded by Albirex's defenders the whole match.So I decided to help in attack," Jerkovic told the Brunei Times in an interview yesterday.

DPMM FC may bank on him for goals, but Jerkovic does not feel any burden saying: "Football is my life.I played against Albirex and didn't feel any pain.

"The most important thing is we are playing as a team.We are like a family together," said the 30-year old Jerkovic.

The midfielder was out for a month after undergoing an operation on appendicitis in June.He was only included in Saturday's line-up afterpassing a late fitness test.

Despite trailing league leaders SAF FC by 10 points -Jerkovic believes they can still win the S-League crown in their debut season.

"At the beginning of the season we were only aiming for a Top Five finish, but now seeing how much we have achieved we are aiming for at least a Top Three position," said Jerkovic. "It is very difficult because this season is still very long but we are going to concentrate on winning other trophy - this time the Singapore Cup where we are already in the quarterfinals," added Jerkovic.

Asked about DPMM's plan to sign compatriot Drazen Govic, Jerkovic said: "He is a big player. I've known him back in Croatia as we played in the same team for three years. He will have to pass fitness test before he can join us."

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic, meanwhile believes that Saturday's victory has put DPMM in the title race. 

"All teams in the S-League are equally strong.SAF had the advantages in the early round as they played the bottom teams first. But their defeat to Super Reds last Friday is good for the league as now more teams can challenge for the title," said Simunic.

"We have to play so many games this season .Being a small team we will be able to play better in a shorter competition but I'm hoping to include more players to make the team bigger and to cover for injured and suspended regular first team players."

The Croatian coach said that he was a bit worried of fielding Jerkovic on Saturday."I was worried that he might get injured in the game.I'm glad everything went ok. He is a string player, both physically and mentally."

The coach was also happy that his halftime talk managed to push his players to stage a comeback - having gone into the break a goal and a man down."I told them that I trusted them even with a man down and they could win it by at least a 2-1 scoreline.And they did it just that."

But Simunic will lose three key players for the next match against Gombak Utd on Wednesday - with Rosmin Khamis who was sent-offagainst Albirex,skipper Pg Sallehudin and Hardi Bujang all suspended for their visit to Jurong West Stadium in Singapore.

"I thought that we weren't that aggressive on Saturday ... Albirex were just as aggressive as us," said Simunic." Now we will miss some key players for our big game on Wednesday," he added.

Albirex manager Bogdan Brasoveanu, meanwhile, was disappointed to go down to 10-man DPMM on Saturday - having taken the lead through Tetsuya Kishida in the 40th minute.

"We did extremely well throughout the game but we just couldn't kill it off in the key moments," said Brasoveanu after the match.

"I think the fans here did just well to encourage DPMM FC's revival in the second half.It is good for DPMM as the fans in the stadium were like the 12th man on the field," added Brasoveanu. 

Ten-Man DPMM FC came alive in the final 20 minutes to grab a 2-1 win over Albirex Niigata to extend their unbeaten run at home in the league last night.

Ivan Jerkovic was a late inclusion in the line-up after passing a last-minute fitness test and the Croatian was DPMM's hero yesterday - scoring a late goal to hand the Brueneians all three points.

Jerkovic, who had an operation for appendicitis in June and was out for a month, netted in the 79th minute to stop DPMM's two-match losing streak.

Abdel Hamid Berguiga had drawn three defenders before sending a cross into the box which was headed away by an Albirex defender only to land in front of Jerkovic, who struck it home.

"I was ready to play even though I had not touched the ball for a month," said a delighted Jerkovic.

DPMM hardly threatened the visitors goal in the first half.Albirex used their speed to outplay their rivals and almost got infront as early as the 19th minute when Kenji adachihara skipped past three defenders to unleash a powerful striker only to be denied by Wardun.

Midfielder Rosmin Khamis was then given his marching orders in the 38th minute after a second bookable offence.

To make matters worse for the home side, the ensuing free-kick from just outside the box -taken by Akira Takase - sailed past DPMM's wall and could be parried away by Wardun Albirex substitute Tetsuya Kishida was the fatest to react - reaching the ball first to score for the visitors on the rebound.

Making of their numerical advantage Albirex started to control the match. The Japanese outfir created plenty of chances but failed to add to their tally.

In the 45th minute Azwan was brought down in the box, but the referee just waved away DPMM's appeal for a penalty.

Albirex started the second half brightly - exploiting the space in the DPMM's defence to find their second goal.

The visitors also defended brilliantly to frustrate DPMM.

The Bruneians finally woke up when Abu Bakar Mahari, who was replaced striker Shahrazen Said on the hour mark, hit the goal post in the 70th minute after beating the goalkeeper.

With a new found confidence, DPMM started threatening Albirex's goal as they piled up the pressure on their opponents.

The efforts paid off in the 75th minute when Hj Md Subhi Abdilah equalised with a well struck voleey from just outisde the box.

Four minutes later Ivan jerkovic made it 2-1 and DPMM never looked back.

"We had to risk Ivan today and he turned out to be the hero.He knew that this was a big game and we had to win," said Vjeran Simunic.

"It was a good gamble and it helped to motivate the team."

Last night's victory helps DPMM to leapfrog Gombak Utd into third place. The Bruneians now have 35 points, but Gombak Utd, who have a game in hand, could move back to third if they can beat Tampines today. 

The late afternoon rain did not prevent DPMM from practising yesterday as they prepare fro Saturday's showdown with Albirex Niigata in the S-League at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

After going down to Sengkang Punggol and Tampines Rovers by the same scoreline of 2-1, the team look positive to bounce back against Albirex at home ground where they have been unbeaten all season and look to keep that run intact.

"I expect that we will have a tough game against Albirex as they are a really skilful team and even their fitness level is very high," said Vjeran Simunic coach of DPMM FC, after yesterday's training at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

"In the game against Tampines, we played well eventhough we were missing some key players so we just have to reproduce the same kind of performance eventhough we didn't win the match," said Simunic.

The Croatian feels that the other players are also starting to improve and step up during matches even without the key players.

When asked if the weather in the country will play a role in the team's performance, Simunic replied, "Hopefully it would rain.It is good because it is refreshing and its a lot cooler but I guess it wouldn't ffect our play so much."

Simunic is also hoping more people will come and support the team.

"It was the same problem in the previous game but hopefully we can still get a good turnout to support the team," continued Simunic, who is encouraging all DPMM FC supporters to wear face masks to protect them so as not to take too much of a risk due to the Influenza A situation in the country.

DPMM will welcome the return of Rene Komar and influential winger Sairol Sahari.

Ivan Jerkovic has fully recovered from an operation ,He's been working on his fitness level to be able to join his teammates next week.

"I don't believe it myself but I feel good about it. Hopefully I would be able to make a comeback before the match against Gombak," said Jerkovic. "I would want to start the match but I'll have to see how it goes on the firld.If I can't take it then I'll just have to let the coach know."

After their home fixture, DPMM will go for two tough away matches in Singapore.They play Gombak Utd on July 23rd and the SAF FC on July,29.

Simunic hopes his players will have the right attitude and perform better to repeat their performance against Albirex in their last match in the League Cup in which they won 1-0. 

Brunei DPMM FC failed to occupy the second place after they succumbed to their second consecutive losses in the league losing 2-1 last night.

Two goals from Tampines Noh Alam Shah shattered DPMM's unbeaten record playing at Jalan Besar.Playing without the suspended duo Rene Komar and Sairol Sahri last night, DPMM are now 10 points behindthe Singapore soldiers are are behind od second placed Tampines and Gombak.

Thr match which was telecast live on RTB 2 brought by DST group, might see a mixed reaction from the local supporters after knowing that a win against Vorowan's side could actually catapult DPMM into second spot.

DPMM nearly opened accounts in the 15 minute through 35-year old Hamid Berguiga but he failed to slot the ball in after Tampines goalkeeper Hassan Sunny made a brave save to deny the visitors the opening goal.

However, the Tampines supporters were stunned in the 39th minute after Md Shahrazen Said made no mistake hy handsomely heading the ball into the net from an Azwan Salleh's corner kick giving DPMM a one goal lead.

But the celebration was short-lived two minutes later,Noh Alamshah levelled the score with a header after a blunder from Azwan which led to the goal.

Tampines' Bennoit Crissant was yellow-carded in the 48th minute after he made a harsh tackle on Shahrazen resulting in Shahrazen being substituted by Hardi Bujang.

DPMM FC should have scored in the 71st minute through out-of-form Korean,Oh Ddog Yi after being on a one-to-one situation with the goalkeeper but shot miles wide off goal.

Oh's solo effort,however, frustrated DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic when he shot wide with only the goalkeeper infront of him. The winnin goal for Tampines came in the 85th minute with Noh Alam Shah once again putting his name on the score-sheet with a nice header beating Wardun.

The score ended 2-1 in favour of Tampines Rovers. 

Vjeran Simunic has another major headache when DPMM clash with in-form Tampines Rovers at the Jalan Besar Stadium at 7.30 today.

Rene Komar, the rock of DPMM's defence, will miss the game after collecting his fourth yellow card in the game against Sengkang Punggol on Monday.

To make matters worse Sairol Sahari, DPMM's attacking fullback and the team's dead ball specialist will also be suspended for the match while Ivan Jerkovic is still not recover fully from his appendix.

"This is bad news for us because once again we will without three key players for the game," said DPMM head coach Simunic yesterday.

"But Ipromise the fans we will try our best and put up a challenge against a very strong team. This is a very crucial game for both teams as we both want to score points to challenge for the title," added Simunic.

"Right now our opponents can beat anybody as they have a full squad. This is going to be a tough game as our team are hurting because we can't perform our best without some of our players," continued the coach.

"Anything can still happen in the game and hopefully we able to grab all three points."

The DPMM coach will have to make some changes to get the best from his men and has decided to start Yusof Salleh in Komar's position.

"This is going to be a big challenge for hism as it is very difficult to not have Rene in the line-up,"said Simunic during the interview. 

The Croatian said that Safari Wahit too would not be joining the squad for this game but they would be welcoming back midfielder Hj Md Subhi and Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga- both having served their one game suspension in the previous match.

Both teams, however, have 32 points - with Tampines having a better goal difference tha DPMM.

Thus, tonight's game is a must win for both teams as victory will push them to second place, one point ahead of Gombak but seven points adrift of the defending champions, SAF FC.

Jalan Besar is a very lucky venue for DPMM as they have not lost any of their matches there and even grabbed their first silverware this year, the Singapore League Cup, at the venue. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic predicted that the loss of three key players would affect the team and he was proven right last night,losing 2-1 to Sengkang Punggol last night.

As the Croatian trainer expected, the absence of midfielder Hj Subhi Abdilah Bakir and striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga due to suspension played a pivotal role in deciding the match's outcome at the Hougang Stadium, with midfielder Ivan Jerkovic also missing out due to recovery from his appendix.

With former Singapore national team skipper Aide Iskandar orchestrating a mini-revival after taking over the reins as caretaker coach, the Guinean midfielder Abdoulaye Diallo got on the scoresheet in the 42 minute when he latched onto a through ball and scored after taking advantage of a lack of concentration by the DPMM backline.

Canadian midfielder Murphy Wiredu recovered from a hamstring concern to start the match and scored in the 63rd minute off a corner with DPMM midfielder Sairol Sahri netting one of his trademark free-kicks nine minutes later to give the visitors a lifeline.

But though DPMM would find the net again, Simunic said they were unlucky it was ruled out for offside.

"I did worry about this game because we didn't have three key players and we wouldn't be able to perform as usual," said Simunic yesterday.

"Without those players it was a real problem for us - though we were unlucky to see our goal disallowed.

"We are a strong team with our first eleven but we have to work on getting bench players like Dodi and Helmi into the team.

"Shahrazen was a little sick but he played ... We needed him," said the 53-year old Croatian, adding that his charges looked mentally tired last night.

Helmi took the place of Subhi in last night's match, with Tutong-native Abu Bakar Mahari deputising for Berguiga.

Simunic also disclosed that the team will be without Rene Komar in the next gameagainst Tampines Roverson Friday due to suspension.

Despite last night's loss, the side's third of the season, they remain fourth in the league with 32 points. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic admitted he is having problems sleeping thinking his line-up for their league match against Sengkang Punggol at the Hougang Stadium tonight.

Croatian midfielder maestro Ivan Jerkovic is still recovering from an appendix operation last month, and midfielder Hj Subhi as well as Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga will play no part in the game after getting their suspensions of yellow cards.

Though Simunic would hand striker Abu Bakar Mahari a start, he was not sure who would fill in the slots in the middle of the park.

"There is no Subhi...It is a nightmare because he has been one of our best players in the past few games," said Simunic yesterday in a telephone interview.

"I know Abu will replace Hamid but I am not sure who would take Subhi's place.I will decide tomorrow(Monday) morning

"We are without three beacause players because Jerkovic is still recovering. It is a big damage for us," added the Croatian head coach.

Despite the trio's loss,Simunic said that he had once again hoping for a good performance from his players.

Simunic noted that a win tonight would be crucial because the Bruneians need the points to leapt past Gombak to second in the league, only 4 points behind SAF if they win tonight.

"A win is very important because we need the points tonight not only to leap second on the table but to pressure SAF by only 4 points," said Simunic.

"Sengkang are a good side and they have just changed their coach.They have also one of the best players in Singapore, the Singapore national team captain Indra Sahdan Daud.

"It will be a tough game but DPMM will eb going there to provide a fight," added Simunic.

The Croatian also said that he expected the Canadian duo of midfielder Murphy Wiredu and striker Anthony Bahadur to playa key part in the game for the Singaporeans, with Japanese defender Hiroyuki Yamamoto also sure to impress.

However,Simunic will be pleasntly surprised to learn that Yamamoto and Bahadur are carrying hamstring niggles and might not play, and defenders Nor Rahman and Nor Azli Yusoff both suspended according to S-League website.

"DPMM FC have clearly shown that they are no push-overs and their coach has done a good job," said Aide on the S-League website.

"They have good players and also have a few good local players and the main thing about them is that they are a very hardworking side.

"We had our chances the last time we played them but we didn't finish them off. We have to take our chances and scoring goals is the only way to win games," added Aide, who used to captain the Singapore team himself. 

DPMM FC will be looking to extend their magnificent run of form when they face S-League basement dwellers Balestier Khalsa tonight at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

After beating Geylang Utdlast Wednesday 3-0 at the same venue, DPMM FC are looking to keep on the heels of their opponents as they lie in third place in the S-League, just two points adrift of leaders Gombak FC and a point behing defending champions SAF FC. The team have been great on home soil as they have gain all three points so far at home."We respect our opponents and know that it will not be an easy game at most of the teams are looking to beat us and get good results since we are the new team in the league," said DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic.

"We have to concentrate on getting points but every game will get tougher as we are missing some of our key players. Every game from here on is important as we need the points to have any chance of winning the league.We just have to keep the same attitude and try to get the best results," added Simunic.

Simunic is expecting more supporters to come and to support the team and they will be heading out to Singapore for two away matches after this game.

DPMM's next game will be on July 6 against Sengkang Punggol at the Hougang Stadium, Singapore. 

It looks like things couldn't be going any better for DPMM FC, winning last night's Singapore League game against Geylang United FC 3-0 just days after lifting the Singapore League Cup.

Though DPMM FC remain in third with 29 points, the win pushes Brunei's only premier club to within one point of second-placed SAF FC.

After a good start by the visitors, they seemed to lose confidence after midfielder Azwan Salleh scored a stunning goal from well outside the box in the 21st minute in what was the first chance for DPMM FC.

Playing as a supporting striker just behind Algerian forward Abdel Hamid Berguiga and South Korean Oh Ddog Yi, Shahrazen's pass to Azwan saw the 21-year old player waste no time in pulling the trigger - his cannonball from 30 yards destined for the back of the net.

Suddenly it was the Singaporeans who were on the back foot, losing possesion of the ball far too easily and looking shaky with their passes.

It was only on the counter-attack that they looked the most capable of scoring, with captain Noor Ali capping off such break on the half-hour mark but seeing his shot saved by Wardun Yussof at the near post to notch Geylang's first sot on target.

A DPMM counter-attack a minute later showed the fans just why the club signed Berguiga, the Algerian faking a defender who fell over himself before forcing Yazid Yasin in between the Geylang posts into a save.

Proof that the visitors were a changed side 9 minutes fater restart when Yazid surprised the stadium which landed at the feet of Berguiga.

But after holding off two defenders, the 35-year old striker was extremely unlucky to see his shot sail past Yazid, but not the post.

Geylang's Hafiz Rahim would come up with the game's next shot on target, hitting the post in the 55th minute from a tight angle.

The Eagles lacked quality needed to break down on aorganised DPMM back-line and were made to pay with the goal of the game in the 69th minute.

Intercepting a poor pass in midfield, Berguiga's quick thinking saw him launch a shot from nearly 40 yards out on the left flank, which amazingly found the net only beacuse Yazid was well off his line.

Comfortably in control of the game by now, DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic decided to replace captain Pg Sallehuddin Damit with Suhaime Yussof - a move which had an immediate impact.

Realising that Oh was in space, the defender delivered a prefectly weighted pass to the speedy South Korean, who obliged by leaving his defenders eating dust and scoring past Yazid after bringing the ball nearly one-third of the field's length.

The home side's slow and methodical play might not have won them any new fans last night, but it is a formula which is paying dividends.

"The team are growing everyday and we must maintain pressure on the leaders until the league's end in November," said Simunic in his post-match comments.

"We are changing our image now and we are scoring more.I am especially happy with Azwan's goal," said the DPMM coach. 

"our fans really helped the tired players. The players were emotionally empty after the victory in the League Cup on Friday but thanks to the fans, they were able to win tonight's game," he added. 

The team went on a lap of honour around the stadium after the match, with some lucky fans being thrown jerseys and souvenirs from the players.

The Brunei team's next match is against S-League basement dwellers Balestier Khalsa at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas next Wednesday, where nothing but all three points will satisfy the home crowd. 

Brunei DPMM FC's import Ivan Jerkovic will be out of S-League action for a month after a successful surgery at RIPAS hospital for appendicitis three days ago.

The inspirational midfielder will thus miss the match tonight against Geylang Utd at home.

When met at the hospital yesterday, Jerkovic said: "I am doing fine, the operation went well and I am recuperating. The doctor said I can be recharged maybe tomorrow or the next day."

"The unbearable pain in the stomach happened the night before the Singapore League final," he recalled.

"Just watching tv in the hotel room in Singapore and not being able to play a role in the final was hard on me.And now I cannot play at least a month.I hope I can recover as soon as possible to be in the squad again," he expressed.

Meanwhile, Brunei DPMM FC's coach Vjeran Simunic said, "Ivan Jerkovic is one of the key players in the squadand its a tremendous loss for the team.We might play eight games without Ivan." 

"Azwan Salleh will be given the task to start in place of Ivan and we will be putting three strikers on the field namely Od Ddog Yi, Abdel Hamid and Md Shahrazen," he said. 

The fearsome defender Pg Sallehuddin is back in the lineup to hold off Geylang Utd offence together with Rene Komar and Yussof Salleh.

Both sides have met twice in as many matches. The first  encounter was on March 12 in the league where both teams fought out on a goaless draw and in the recent S League Cup quarterfinal, Brunei DPMM came up victorious 5-3.

"We respect Geylang, they are a very good team.It will be a tough game," Simunic added.

"After capturing the League Cup, DPMM's morale is high and we want the local fans to come up in full force to support the team.I hope to see the stadium filled to the brink with cheering fans. Anyone who love or are crazy about football must come to the stadium."

"It will be a crucial match tonight as Brunei DPMM are trying to close the gap on current league leaders Gombak Utd and also to extend our points from Tampines whom are just a point behind." 

Hundreds of DPMM FC fans greeted the newly crowned Singapore League Cup champions at the Brunei International Airport yesterday afternoon with ecstatic celebrations not seen since the national football team lifted the Malaysia Cup 10 years ago.

DPMM FC's 4-3 win a penalty shoot-out against seven time league champions SAFFC in the final on Friday night saw the Bruneians becomes the first foreign team to lift a trophy in Singapore football,and some of the fans had been waiting since the morning to welcome their heroes back from the city-state.

With the scores level at 1-1 at the end of extra time at the Jalan Besar Stadium, goalkeeper was the team's saviour after blocking shots from Japanese Masahiro Fukasawa and defender Razaleigh Khalek.

South Korean striker Oh Ddog Yi missed his penalty after Wardun saved to set up a nervy final few seconds, but captain on the night Rosmin Khamis proved his worth with the winning penalty after Wardun had saved Razaleigh's attempt.

Under criticism of late for his less than confident display between his sticks, especially with his decision making in the air, the DPMM goalkeeper kept his cool during the shoot-out to guess it correctly and save the last two shots.

"I am really happy to have played such a big part in the win," said Wardun yesterday.

"I knew I could do it I did not feel the pressure during the penalties because it was not the first time I have been in a shoot-out.

"I did some research on SAF and I watched vidoes of their quarter-final match which also ended in penalties, and that helped a lot," added the goalkeeper.

Deputising for suspended cpatain Pg Sallehuddin Damit- who was part of victorious Malaysia Cup team who midfielder Hj Md Subhi  - Romsin said he had no doubts about scoring the winning penalty.

"I was confident I could do it.The thought of missing never crossed my mind,"said Rosmin.

"What's next? We've already won one trophy, now its two more to go," added the midfielder, referring to the league and the Singapore Cup in which the team already enters the quarter-finals.

Though the defender Rene Komar was named the "Man of the match" after a commanding performance that saw him score the equaliser three minutes after Aleksander Duric headed home the opener in the sixth minute - and come up with numerous headers to starve off a relentless aerial attack from SAF -  the Croatian admitted he was hesitant to be involved during the shoot-out.

"I've never taken a penalty before in my life! If I took it, maybe we would have lost," said Komar with a laugh.

The defender might regard his humble attitude as one of his best attributes but the same cannot be said of the team's head coach Vjeran Simunic, who has been dubbed the 'Jose Mourinho of Singapore football' for his often controversial comments. 

But it is a safe bet to say it would be difficult to find a single fan yesterday afternoon who would admonish the Croatian for his misgivings, the 53-year old coach keeping his promise that he would bring success to this generation of DPMM players.

"I am very proud to have won the competition and it is like a dream come true for me," said Simunic.

It is my destiny to be together with this team because I saw the talent this group of players had ... They followed my ideas and it is a very deserved win.

"They were very hungry to be a successful team.

"Many teams from South Korea, Japan and China have tried to become the first foreign team to this competition, if not any competition in Singapore but failed. This is a wonderful gift for the people of Brunei. 

"Despite missing three key players we played a nice game and it was an excellent job from the players, beating SAF for the third time," he added. 

"We will enjoy the celebrations for now but on Monday it is back to training and to our next target - winning the league and the Singapore Cup," said the coach.

Whatever the outcome of those two competitions, Friday's night win in what is the Bruneian's debut campaign will highlight the fact that this already looking like a season that has exceeded all expectations. 

Vjeran Simunic is confident DPMM FC can win their first silverware in the S-League when his men will face SAF FC in the League Cup final at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore at 7.45pm today.

"We are the best team in Singapore now," said the Croatian in a television interview after DPMM FC defeated Woodlands Wellington 2-1 in the first semi-final on Monday.

"We are already champions because we have beaten SAF FC twice this season," he later added.

In their previous meetings,DPMM FC came out victors with a 3-0 drubbing of SAF FC in the group stages of the tournament.DPMM also defeated them 2-1 back in April at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium in the league.

Bit if DPMM were to lift the League Cup tonight then they would have to do it without their skipper PG Sallehuddin and star striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga - who were both suspended. 

Mush as Simunic has tried to brush off the issue, not having the due around will cause much concern among his players as they take to the field.

Pg Sallehuddin's ability to command and rally his fellow Bruneians has been key to their uncompromising performances in the backline, as is the wealth of experience he brings as he approaches the final years of his lengthy career.

His importance at the back is matched only by Rene Komar who has been a hit with the Bruneians ever since he was brought to DPMM by ex-coach Ranko Buketa in 2005.

With Pg Sallehuddin out, Komar will be required to perform double duty at the back as he attempts to shield goalkeeper Wardun Yussof, who appears a little shaky lately.

Wardun will need to raise his game out the resurgent attacking line of Aleksander Duric, Park Tae Won, John Wilkinson and Ahmad Latiff Khamaruddin.

At the other end, Simunic can expect more headaches over whom to pivk as stand-in for Berguiga, with neither option looking particular suited to his palate.

Between Abu Bakar Mahari, whom the coach has regularly lauded but never started, and Oh Ddog Yi - in whom he appears to place little trust after openly sidelining him in recent weeks - the decision appears fraught in a net of personal issues.

The key to victory for the Bruneians could well lie in Croatian midfielderIvan Jerkovic, who leads the goal charts in this competition going into the final with four to his name.

Remarkably, three of the four goals came from dead ball situations, including a penalty against Geylang in the quarter-finals.

In that light, SAF will need Masahiro Fukasawa to deliver a top-draw performance in his holding midfield role to keep the former Pelita Jaya man under the leash, even as the rest of the midfield push on for attacking opportunities.

The Jerkovic-Fukasawa duel will in all likehood be the central battle and decides of tonight's final. 

Brunei DPMM FC will continue their fairy tale debut in the League Cup up against Woodlands Wellington tonight in the first semi-final match at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

On paper, it is a fair match between the two teams after securing wins at their home ground respectively when the two teams clashed in the S-League.

In a match played at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium back in March, Brunei DPMM scored two goals from Sairol Sahri and Ivan Jerkovic and Woodlands Wellington managed to net one goal from Ismadi Muhamad Mukhtar.

However,Brunei DPMM FC lost with the same score they played in Woodlands Stadium in May  Mojtaba Tehranizadeh and Jamil Ali were on the score-sheet for Wellington's and Brunei DPMM 'wonder boy' Abu Bakar Mahari earned himself a goal.

Nicknamed the "Wasps" by the local supporters and fans in Singapore, Brunei DPMM won their first two matches in the group stage beating Albirex Niigata 1-0 before thrashing SAF FC 3-0.

Brunei DPMM collected 6 points after 2 straight wins and advanced to the quarter-final match next facing Geylang United. Once again played at Jalan Besar where they never lost there. And the fact was proven after they won again in a thrilling 5-3 goals feast, which was televised 'live' in the RTB 2 channel.

Brunei DPMM FC's midfielder, Ivan Jerkovic and Jamil Ali of Woodlands lead the League Cup leading scorers with three goals each. Striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga scored two goals.

DPMM FC booked their berth in the semi-final of the Singapore League Cup last night with a 5-3 win over Geylang United in a game that will live long in the memory of the Bruneian club's fans.

The highest scoring match in this year's tournament, the goal-feast at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore saw end-to-end action, three penalties and two goals scored in the in the space of two minutes - not once but twice.

Supporters of Brunei's only professional football club will be hardpressed to remember the last time their team scored five goals, and indeed, it was a feat which was last repeated during the side's 5-1 home win against NS Naza in the Malaysian Super League back in 2007.

But last night it was all about hunger for the ball in the opening exchanges- and Geylang were starving for it.

Closing down well and winning the midfield battle, Geylang got on the scoresheet in the 9th minute when striker Hafiz Rahim found the opener with a simple nod after receiving a header from the left.

Croatian midfielder Ivan Jerkovic hit side netting in the 15th minute after running on a pass from Hj Md Subhi in DPMM's first real chance of the match. 

Four minutes later defender Rene Komar did well to clear off the line a lob from Hafiz, a menace to the Bruneians' back-line throughout the first half. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic made an inspired substitution in the 33rd minute, replacing midfielder Hardi Bujang with striker Oh Ddog Yi.

It was a move which paid immediate dividend as the team would score two goals in the space of two minutes to turn the tides.

DPMM FC equalised in the 35th minute through Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga who found the net with a header after connecting on a Hj Md Subhi cross from the right.

Hardly a minute later, the influential Jerkovic played a pivotal role in the team's second goal, laying the ball off to compatriot Komar who gave the team the lead with a curling shot from outside the box - easily the bes goal of the night.

However, Komar would turn from hero to villain seven minutes after the restart, bringing down midfielder Syed Thaha in the box.

Midfielder Baihakki Khaizan made no mistake from ensuing the penalty, and suddenly it was game on again.

Undaunted, DPMM FC got in front again in the 58th minute when Jerkovic tapped in  a header from Berguiga which glanced across the face of the goal.

But the team's celebrations were short lived when Geylang midfielder Yasir Hanapi scored with a shot from inside the box after DPMM defenders failed to deal with a corner.

Oh's persistence won the team a penalty in the 66th minute when Slovakian midfielder Miroslav Latiak brought the south Korean down in the box, and Jerkovic bagged his second from the penalty box.

Rosmin Khamis provided the icing on the cake with another calmly taken penalty in the 90th minute to seal the win.

In his post-game comments Simunic said that the game was one of the biggest in the club's history, and it looks like they passed it with flying colours.

They will face Woodlands Wellington in the first semi-final which will be played at the same venue on Monday. 

Most of Brunei DPMM FC will be out in full force to face Geylang Utd in the quarter final clash at Jln Besar Stadium tonight in a bid to book a place in the semi-final of the Singapore League Cup.

Several members of Brunei DPMM FC's first team risk suspension by picking up second yellow cards in tonight's game, however the club will not be holding out on the match. Only Azwan Salleh will not be playing tonight because of picking two straight yellow in two previous matches.

Head coach Brunei DPMM FC,Vjeran Simunic said," our first team picked up plenty of yellow cards in the previous games but we will play cautiously, we will play with full force."

Group B runners-up, Geylang Utd qualified for the quarter-final with a 3-0 win against Young Lions, however they lost in their first match against Tampines Rovers with the same margin.

Brunei DPMM cruised into the quarter-final with a 1-0 win against Albirex Niigata and a 3-0 victory over SAF FC.

Simunic said,"It will be a tough game, both teams are evenly matched. Geylang has vast experience.They have trio imports in Ricky Harris, Lloyd Butler and a good stopper in Japanese Haruki Seto."

"Brunei DPMM will do their best and gto the next round," he added.

The coach who comes from Croatia said, "Brunei DPMM FC has surprised teams in the S-League with its impressive performance and now all the Singaporean teams are looking to dethrone us."

On the question of whether Brunei DPMM will be able to compete the reason after the recent problem of BAFA putting the team in limbo, the coach said, "the problem has been settled and Brunei DPMM can play until the end of this season." 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic believes his team's performance in last night's 3-0 Singapore League Cup win over reigning champions SAF FC was twice as good as their last victory over them.

With a goal a piece from Croatian midfielder Ivan Jerkovic and striker Shahrazen Said in the first half ensuring a 2-0 lead heading into the dressing rooms at the Jurong West Stadium, forward Abd Hamid Berguiga's striker in the second half saw the Bruneians record a historic win which earns them into the quarterfinal of the competition.

Their 1-0 win over Albirex Niigata few days ago saw them pass first hurdle and finished as top in Group A to qulaify for the knock-out stage of the tournament.

Berguiga's goal in the 75th minute could not have come a better time, with the experienced Algerian under fire from his coach of late for not finding the net more regularly.

But when interviewed after the match, Simunic could find no fault with Berguiga - or anyone else on the team it seemed.

"I don't know what happened to them (the players), they must have gone crazy! ... They ran a lot, they could have scored more goals," said Simunic in a telephone interview yesterday.

"They played twice as good than the home game against them, and tonight's result is something all Bruneians must be proud of.

"I am very happy with Hamid, he worked very hard for the goal...The players were all excellent.Even Wardun played wonderfully! SAF also played well,they had two good chances which hit the post," added the coach.

The Croatian thought they will face Geylang Utd in the next round, the probabale runner-up of Group B.The final Group A match pits SAF against Albirex on Monday night to decide which team faces Tampines in the last eight.

Prior to the match Simunic said he felt  the seven-time league champions SAF would be out for revenge after losing in April. It did not look like they got any last night. 

Vjeran Simunic yesterday said that DPMM FC's 1-0 win against Albirex Niigata in their debut Singapore League Cup match on Tuesday night has secured the club of its future in the S-League.

BAFA have been given until the end of the month t get reinstated by the Registrar of Societies(RoS), and though the possibility of that was always slim, DPMM FC's head coach believes that their win at the Jalan Besar Stadium against the Japanese outfit has now shown S-League officials that they cannot afford to be without the club in the league.

"I know now we can finish our season," said Simunic in a telephone interview from Singapore yesterday.

"I heard about it from DPMM FC management ... We don't need to worry about the rest of our season and the BAFA problem again.

"The S-League don't want to lose a very important member of the league and we have proved ourselves to be worthy after the win," he added.

"Now we are not sure if we have qualified for the next round or not, but we did a good job and now have to prepare to face SAF FC in our second match on Friday," added the Croatian.

With Simunic blaming Singaporean media for biased reporting after team's goaless draw against Woodlands in the league last week, he felt that his fears were rested after the feedback he got from certain journalists after watching the game televised live.

Simunic said there have been reports of the team resorting to playinh physical and dirty game.

"Now I am happy because some journalists have called and said we are not a rough team," said Simunic.

"Now I see it is true what I have said, that some people worry about us being at the top of the league and want to change that.

"But because of the match was televised, it has shut many people's mouths because they have seen how we play.

"If you look at the Albirex game, the referee should have shown their number nine (Akira Takase) his second yellow but he just gave him a warning. Anyway I don't want to speak too much, my team has already spoken on the field and I am very proud of them," he added.

On the defensive for the most of the match after a Hj Md Subhi goal in the 24th minute earned them the lead,Simunic said it was not because of any instructions he gave his men during the half break.

"I don't know why they were defensive. Maybe the team thought they had a 1-0 lead and had to hold on to it for the win, and we especially wanted a victory because i=of the situation which we had before we challenged Albirex," said Simunic, referring to the uncertainty surrounding their future in the league.

"Albirex are a very dangerous and fast team and we knew if we went all out they were capable of punishing us.

"We did not score a second goal but created five or six chances.I am veru unsatisfied that Hamid had two good chances but waste it.

"Hamid now has very bad luck because he had not scored in four games... I am waiting for a goal," he added.

Though Shahrazen had three early chances to find the net, he found his finishing to be lacking.

The head coach also explained his decision to substitute  midfielder Azwan Salleh for Hardi Bujang in the 56th minute saying that it was because he did not want Azwan to pick another yellow after already being shown one in the first half.

"Also, I trust Hardi, and although he cannot play the full game he can finish nicely," said Simunic.

"Azwan will start against SAF FC and Dog Yi will be on the bench.I am not going to change a winning team.

Hamid and Shahrazen will start game, and I am satisfied with Shahrazen's performance.I will never touvh him even though if he does not score.

"Somebody is always going to score in the game ...The other day it was Sairol and now it is Subhi, I do not need only Hamid,Shahrazen or Abu to score." 

Hj Muhd Subhi Abdilah Bakir goal in the 24th minute of DPMM FC's Singapore League Cup match against Albirex Niigata last night was enough for a hard fought 1-0 win in a game which the Bruneians were largely on the back foot.

Despite the Japanese outfit's dominance of territory and relentless pressure, Albirex never seriously threatened the visitors and lacked the creativity to break down the Bruneians' backline.

Albirex's quick passing posed a problem for DPMM and they countered that by showing the tempo down whenever they got the ball in order to disrupt their opponents play- a tactic which enjoyed success.

The Bruneians started the game brightly, with striker Shahrazen Said carving three chances in the opening quarter of an hour but fading after that. 

Albirex's midfielder Taisuke Akiyoshi went on a spell-bounding run in the 16th minute and his shot on goal forced DPMM goalkeeper Wardun Yussof into making his first save of the night. 

DPMM FC were looking unsure on the ball, moving it around the park aimlessly and unable to win the midfield battle.

That must have urged Croatian defender Rene Komar to take it upon himself to make a difference, coming up with a surging run forward which led to the goal.

Passing the ball to compatriot Ivan Jerkovic, the midfielder's perfectly weighted through pass to Hj Muhd Subhi on the right was rewarded with calm finishing from inside the box.

Scoring with a low shot past Albirex's goalkeeper Yo***o Matsu***a, astute defending in the second period ensured DPMM of the win in a ahlf which Albirex were in the driver's seat from start to finish.

Unmarked just outside the box, Akira Takase had a chance to equalise on the half-hour mark but his shot did not trouble Wardun.

Striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga - who opened his account for the club when he bagged the equaliser for DPMM for DPMM in their 2-2 league match against Albirex two months ago - was guilty of wasting a golden opportunity to add to the team's lead minutes later, his cheeky chip saved by Matsu***a after another through pass from jerkovic put the Algerian through on goal.

Four minutes after the break, Ryohei Maeda produced a free-kick which saw Wardun rooted to the spot, but the midfielder was unlucky to see his shot bounce back off the bar.

The 69th minute saw Berguiga botch another attempt to add to their lead, shooting just wide off the right post with just the goalkeeper to beat.

Jerkovic came up with DPMM FC's first shot on target of the second half in the 77th minute, but it was nothing that Matsu***a could not handle.

Albirex looked certain to find the net nine minutes from time, but a miskick from close range led to a save by Wardun maintained the Bruneians advantage.

Midfielder Kunihiro Honda saw Wardun save his free-kick in the 86th minute, and in the end, the Japanese side would rue wasting their chances in a game which they controlled with their slick passing and off the ball movement.

"This is a very sweet victory for us," beamed DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic in his post match comments.

"I was expecting a game like this and it would have been good if we could find a second goal.Berguiga was unlucky not to have scored, espcially since he has not scored in four games," added the coach, who compared the match to "Brunei versus Japan" when met last week.

DPMM's next assignment is seven-time league champions Singapore Armed Forces on Friday, with a win confirming their entry to the knock-out stages.

In the other game, Geylang Utd beat Young Lions 3-0 at the Choa Chu Kang  Stadium with goals from Ratislav Belacak, Lloyd Butler and Ashrin Shariff. 

Despite the uncertainty surrounding their future in the S-League DPMM FC can rest assured with the knowledge that they have the Singapore Cup to look forward to.

Brunei's only professionla club head into tonight's League Cup clash against Japanese outfit Albirex Niigata just days after they announced that they might not be able to continue playing in the league because of the complexities they are arose over the deregistration of the Brunei Darussalam Football Association (BAFA)

BAFA have been given until the end of the month to get reinstated by the Registrar of Societies (RoS), and with the League Cup final slated for June 19, the competition is one that DPMM FC know they can compete in without any worries.

The Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore will play host to the much-awaited game and the DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic compared the match to "Brunei versus Japan" during the team's regular training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium last Friday.

Buoyed by a 2-2 draw the team played to against Albirex when they met in the league last April, Simunic said that he was confident of a win if his players maintained their focus. 

Striker Hamid Berguiga will be expected to start, and Simunic will be hoping to see his name on the scoresheet again after the Algerian opened his account for the club when he bagged the equaliser two months ago.

Brunei DPMM FC's only hope to win a Cup this year is the League Cup before "stepping down" from the Singapore League 2009 (S-League) tournament by the end of this month.

The club announced last week that they may not be able to continue playing due to the problems over Brunei Darussalam Football Association (BAFA), which had an impending impact on their FIFA's membership and the status of Football Federation of Brunei Darussalam(FFBD), which is yet to be known by FIFA.

The club's tactically-monotonous Croatian coach Vjeran Simunic would probably see that the League Cup as the first leg in his dream first-season treble would just remain a dream and will only focus to this League Cup.

If the Bruneians win their opening match against Albirex Niigata FC, they should safely progress to the knockout stages.So much will hinge on that clash.Brunei DPMM match against the Japanese side earlier this season at Jurong East ended in a 2-2 draw.

Simunic is expected to be fielding Md Shahrazen Said and Abd Hamid Berguiga upfront  while Oh Ddogyi will be suspended due to a red card in the last game of the League Cup representing the Super Reds.

"To me this game against Albirex is like Brunei versus Japan.The team comprises all young Japanese and they had a very good combination of playing football. They are a very strong team with fast attacking football," said Simunic at their training ground in Jerudong.

The coach is hoping that they will win the game before facing SAF FC, which recently thrashed Albirex 6-0 in the league.

"I am confident with my playersand I think we have a very good chance to win this game.I hope they can give a 100% performance and leave behind the current issue that we are facing right now," he said.

Vjeran Simunic believes that the possibility of DPMM being barred from playing in the Singapore League next month might jeopardise the future of football in the country.

On Friday, DPMM FC's Croatian head coach said that the news of the club facing uncertainty over their future under the S-League banner due to complexities which have arisen over the deregistration of Brunei Football Association (BAFA) and the status of FFBD - which has yet to be recognised by the International Federation Association Football(FIFA).

Currently third in their debut S-League season, Simunic's men have surprised everyone by taking the lead in the league for three times over the course of the season which started in February.

"I am very sad to hear this," said Simunic when met at training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

"When I came here I promised to bring success with this generation of players, but if we get kicked out of the league one-third through the season then our fine form will go to waste.

"I have changed the players mentality... They all have a winning mentality now, so we must do all that we can to maintain this.

"Everybody I meet fans and supporters who proise the team and look forward to our next match.What will they do if DPMM cannot play?" he asked.

On a three game winless, Simunic feels the team will be able to bounce back when they face Albirex on Tuesday in their first Singapore League Cup match at the Jalan Besar Stsdium.

They then face the defending champions SAF FC-on Friday,making it a tight schedule, who hopefully can do without any extra pressure.

The Croatian added it would be a pity if they would be unable  to continue in competing in this one of the prestigious league,one of ASIA's 10 best leagues.

Brunei DPMM may not be able to continue playing in the S-League by the end of the June this year.

This is due to the complexities over Brunei Darussalam Football Association(BAFA) which had an impending impact on its FIFA's membership and the status of Football Federation of Brunei Darussalam(FFBD) which is yet to be recognised by the international governing body of football.

The Acting Club Manager,Pg Hj Md Waslimin told the media that the club is deeply saddened by the recent development although the club believes that all parties concerned have given their due consideration in the matter.

He added that the club will try to appeal to the appropriate authorities in the hope that 'reconsideration' be given to the club in this particular circumstances.

On behalf of the club, Pg Hj Waslimin wishes to convey the club's gratitude and appreciation to its local supporters and generous sponsors for their patience, staunsh support and confidence for the to attain its success thus far.

Meanwhile,DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic when asked about his team at their training ground yesterday was in no mood to talk on the latest issue that hit the club again.

"I am really sad. We were denied entry to the Malaysian League due to the complexities of BAFA and now when we are "up in the sky", with the superb performance from the team, once again we need to step down," he said.

The Croatian added the team he currently coached is one of the best teams he ever trained with local young talents and importd are doing very well.

"The young talents have shown to us they can do with the imports adding colours to this developing team. When we played in Singapore, the locals support our team.I areally grateful and after three months we already have our fans in Singapore."

However, he said it is a loss if his team do not feature in the international leagueor playing football anymore.The coach is hoping for the problem to be settled as soon as possible.

But, the team have a great chance to be able to play in the Singapore League Cup and will be able to finish the Cup before their deadline expires.

An informed source said BAFA had until June 26 to get reinstated. 

Yellow cards dished out to five different DPMM FC players in the first half of their match against Super Reds FC on Tuesday night and has led to Vjeran Simunic believing that there is conspiracy in the Singapore League to see the Bruneians fail in their debut season.

Held to a 0-0 draw against the South Korean outfit at Yishun Stadium, DPMM's head coach believes that the refereeing was a "disaster" and that the media in Singapore are painting the team in a bad light.

The result maintains the team's position at third on the table.

Defender Yusof Salleh was the first to get a warning from referee Abd Malek Basher in the fifth minute, with the goalkeeper Wardun Yusof the next player to get his name in the book in the 37th minute.

Midfielder was next hardly a minute later, with Algerian striker Abd Hamid Berguiga and South Korean Oh Ddog Yi joining the club in the 41st and 43rd minutes respectively.

The fact that Super Reds' striker Yun Bo Young tried to assault Simunic during the match but was stopped at the last minute - with no disciplinary action taken - also irked the Croatian.

"This is the biggest robbery ever!" fumed Simunic in a telephone interview yesterday.

"Now that I have seen the replays I realised that all five yellow cards were not genuine, I swear to you that all the five yellow cards were not deserved  ... They were nothing.

"The newspapers in Singapore want to spread rumours that DPMM are playing hard ... DPMM are playing dirty ... The truth is different.

"It was a very bad game because the referee was against us.He was partial to them.It was definitely a conspiracy.

"Now I feel if there is a campaign against DPMM because they(the other teams) aree ashamed that a little team from nowhere can play against them and beat them in their own league," said an incensed Simunic.

The irate Croatian continued by saying that he was angry that no action was taken against Yun, who - he felt -should be shown a red card and perhaps even banned from playing for six months.

According to Simunic, after a call was given against the home side, their whole bench complained and Yun ran towards Simunic to kick him.

Fortunately he was stopped by his teammates five metres away from Simunic, who said that "I put my hands behind my back because I did not want to fight."

A 2-1 loss to Woodlands on May 21 was also littered with bad calls according to Simunic, but despite the conspiracy theory and charges of medis biasness, the coach remained optimistic that his team carried themselves well.

"It was impossible to play.Everytime we crossed the centre-line we were whistled for offside," said Simunic of the game against Super Reds.

"We managed to get a point when people that we had no chance.We even scored a goal but the ref said it was offside.We must react now after these results against Woodlands and Super Reds. Whatever it is, we will keep fighting." 

The team's next game is against Geylang United on June 24 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas,and Simunic will be looking for DPMM's first win in three attempts.  

There were lots of talk, and plenty of action too, at Yishun Stadium last night but not a single goal as DPMM held Korean side Super Reds FC to a draw in their league match.

The Koreans, looking to claim their fourth S-League victory on the trot, were frustrated by a determined DPMM FC side out to a stop a two-game losing streak.

The tough tackling Bruneians showed they meant business- with defender Yusof Salleh picking up the first five bookings for the visitors after just five minutes.

The Koreans who are coached by former DPMM midfielder Jeon Kyeong-Joon, were also not helped by their chronic inability to get shots on target, but things got ugly as Super Reds striker Yun Bo Young and DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic got into war of words at halftime that nearly became physical.

It took some firm refereeing from Abd Malik Bashir to keep the situation under control, as both sides settled for a point apiece to remain on third and fifth in the table respectively.

SAF FC can now open up a seven point gap over the Bruneians if they can beat six-placed Home Utd at Clementi Stadium on Saturday. 

There will be a long break now before DPMM's next league match against Geylang United on June,24th. During the first three weeks of June, the Singapore League Cup will be commenced until the tournament proper will end.

DPMM FC must find a quick cure to their travel sickness when they meet Super Reds at Yishun Stadium, in Singapore, tonight or risk dropping out of the title chances.

Beaten 2-1 by Woodlands last Thursday, Vjeran Simunic's men sits third in the league with 25 points from 13 matches.

The Bruneians are already 5 points adrift of S-League leaders, SAF FC, who have accumulated 30 points from 13 games.

Simunic said DPMM were unlucky against Woodlands, but admitted last week that his team must work hard to get back to winning ways against South Korean outfit Super Reds, who has been in inform team at the moment.

DPMM must now put all that behind them and concentrate on getting all three points. Another defeat could well spell disaster for the Bruneians.

DPMM FC once again fine themselves three points away from being leaders of the S-League when they face Woodlands Wellington at the Woodlands Stadium tonight.

Having held the lead for three times in their debut season,Vjeran Simunic's men will be eager to retain top spot once more.

Currently third in the league, a win for DPMM will see them leapfrog second-placed Gombak Utd and leaders SAF FC who are both tied at 27 points.

"I think we have a good chance of winning the game," said DPMM FC assistant coach Norilham Jais yesterday.

"We have no injuries to our players at the moment and our first 11 is fit to play - though we cannot field South Korean striker Oh Ddog Yi since he is suspended," he said.

With DPMM winning the first encounter between the two teams 2-1 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on March 8, Norilham said that the match provided the team with lessons they can use in the return leg.

"I think we have learnt from our mistakes in that match and now know what we need to change," he said.

"We have also watched a lot of Woodlands matches and have analysed their strengths and weaknesses."

"I am sure the coach(Simunic) has a good formulae of winning," added Norilham.

DPMM might be riding high in the league but the Rams on the other hand find themselves second from bottom, without a victory in the league since April 6 and on a four-match winless streak.

Their last result was a 4-1 lost to Tampines Rovers last Monday and they will head into tonight's clash without Egyptian striker Zakaria Yousif who is suspended.

Though Woodlands head coach Nenad Bacina admitted that his side is on a slump, he was adamant that tonight's match would not be a walk in the park for the Bruneians.

"Morale is a bit down and we had a morning session the day after the Tampines match where I told my boys not to let their heads down," Bacina was saying on the S-League website.

"We do not have many options to change things around as wellas the squad we have this season are small and although we have not been outclassed by any team, sometimes we have fallen just short of beating our opponents."

"... we do not really enough time to recover mentally and physically after playing just three days ago so it will be tough for us.

"I respect them (DPMM) as they are one of the top teams and they are doing well in the league and they have also a good mix of foreigners and locals along with a good team spirit.

"They do not score many goals but they don't concede many goals as well and they have a good system just like Tampines.

"I am expecting a very competitive match and though they are coming to play against us, we will try to be a bit more defensive and we must take our chances," he added. 

DPMM FC are back on their winning ways, but they have a Singaporean defender to thank for their 1-0 win against the Young Lions last night.

Eager to make amends for their first loss last weekend, DPMM were looking for their seventh win of the season when they took on the Singapore Under-23 team at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium last night.

Though the only goal of the match came in the 56th minute when Young Lions defender Shahir Hamzah turned a Yusof Salleh cross from the right into his own net,DPMM Fc is boss is not complaining.

"They announced the goal was scored by Hj Subhi, but if you ask me, Yussof scored the goal," said Simunic scored the goal.

"I am very satisfied with our performance ... We needed the win to keep up with Gombak and they are now only two points away," he added.

The result cements DPMM spot at third in the league,two points behind Gombak. Defending champions SAF FC remain top of the league on goal difference.

DPMM might feel robbed by referee, T.Aravinthan, who turned down two penalty claims in the first half and showed South Korean striker Oh Ddog Yi a second red after what he had judged to be a harsh tackle in injury time.

However, they have none to blame but themselves for not building on their lead, creating several chances and watching at least two of them find the crossbar instead of the back of the net.

The home side got into their rhythm 10 minutes intot the match, but only after the midfielder Ivan Jerkovic had a penalty claim turned down in the fifth minute.

Seconds later, Yussof looping header which was tipped away by Young Lions goalkeeper and captain, Izwan Mahmud, and the 19-year old would continue to keep his side in the game with his commanding play in front of the net. 

Ten minutes later it was Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga who was appealing to Aravinthan for a penalty after his volley hit the hand of one of the Young Lions defenders, but it was all in vain.

Gabriel Quak had a chance to grab the lead for the visitors in the 21st minute but his shot from the left went across the face of the goal - the best chance for the Singaporeans in the half.

Subhi had a shot which rattled thew framework in the 34th minute and Izwan would find himself busy for the next few minutes.

A through pass in the 35th minute saw striker Shahrazen Said receive the ball just outside the box to create a on-on-one situation against Izwan, but the shot stopper came out top. 

Hardly a minute later Hamid found himself in a similar situation, but once again Izwan could not be beaten.

But Izwan out of his line and the ball falling to the onrushing Shahrazen late in injury time, DPMM looked certain to go into the break with a lead.To the agony of the home fans, he failed to compose himself and his shot sailed wide.

The Young Lions started the second half brightly but they soon found themselves on the backfoot,being made to pay in the 56th minute when Yusof's cross saw Shahir miskick the ball to give the home side the lead which they expertly protected until the final whistle. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic believes that tonight's S-League match against the Young Lions will be a test of his players character.

Coming six days after their loss to Home Utd, the Croatian yesterday said that a win tonight would be important to prove that the result last Sunday was just a hiccup in what had been a stunning start to their debut season.

"I know it will not be easy after we lost our last game, but to come back, we know that we must have character," said Simunic when met during the team's training yesterday.

"We need the points because Gombak are now above us and a win will make a lot of difference," he added.

Despite surrendering their unbeaten record, Simunic dismissed claims that the team's morale had suffered from the loss.

"The atmosphere in the dressing room is great and the players are all ready to do their part," said the coach.

"I am sure we will play a good game."

One of the players Simunic is talking about is 21-year old attacking midfielder Azwan Salleh who picked up a late injurty prior to the Home's game.

"Azwan is a key player and I have a lot of trust in him.Hardi Bujang is also improving in fitness and I am playing him for more minutes now," said Simnunic.

The Croatian said that he planned to field the same team that played against SAF FC on april26th.

The key to that victory was 35-year old Algerian striker Hmaid Berguiga who set up a goal, and scored another, and Simunic is once again opting for experience rather than pace.

"Hamid will definitely start and Ddog Yi will be benched," said Simunic.

"The team are playing better with Hamid and so that is why I have decided to hand him the start," he added.

The suspended backline of captain of Pg Sallehudin and defenders Rene Komar,Yuosf Salleh and Sairol Saari will be eligible to play after having served their one match ban picked up during their game against SAF. 

They might have lost their first match of the S-League season on Sunday night, but DPMM are not going to let the result derail their stunning start to their debut campaign.

Brunei's only professional club fell 0-2 to Home Utd at the Clementi Stadiumin the last of their first round matches of the 33-game season.

Undefeated in 10 matches, Vjeran Simunic's side could not make it 11 in a row against the Protectors, who scored a brace in the space of three second-half minutes to force DPMM into being the last club to surrender their unbeaten record. 

For DPMM's acting club manager, the result will not dent their hopes of a top-five finish.

"We did not play badly but our defenders brielfly lost their focus in the second half," said Pg Waslimin yesterday.

"But the team's confidence is still high and we are not going to let the loss afect us," he added vehemently.

After seeing DPMM goalkeeper,Wardun Yussof save his first half penalty, Japanese striker turned midfielder for the night Murikami made ammends for his mistake when he tapped in right back Isa Halim's shot that ricocheted into his path to come up with another save on the hour mark.

Three minutes later the goalscorer turned provider when his low cross from the dge of the box was deflected to Kengne Ludovick turning his defender and scoring from 6 yards out.

It was no surprise that Simunic blamed his team's loss on the suspension of key players, with 6 regular starters - including four defenders absent.

"At this moment,I'm upset with the 2-0 loss," Simunic was quoted as saying on the S-League's website after the match.

"This is the first time we lost but football is like that.

"We had six key players not playing and Home Utd are one of the top three teams in Singapore," he added.

Midfielder Azwan Salleh was unable to play when he got tight muscle in the last minute with regular starter Oh Ddog Yi lost his form of late.

DPMM's next match is against the Young Lions on Saturday at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

With the team undefeated of even get a draw at home ground, and encouraged by the fact their first match of the season was a 1-1 draw against the Young Lions in singapore, it is a sure bet that DPMM will eb looking at the match to regain their winning ways. 

All good things must come to an end  and the same can now be said of DPMM FC's unbeaten run in the S-League.

DPMM's unbeaten streak in the S-League season fell at the hands of Home Utd last night, losing 2-0 at the Clementi Stadium in singapore.

In the space of three second half minutes, strikers Norikazu Murakami and Kengne Ludovick dashed DPMM's hopes of finishing the first round of the season undefeated after scoring in the 60th and 63rd minutes respectively.

Before the game,Vjeran Simunic had identified Japan's Murikami,Cameroonian Ludovick, his compatriot Valero Hick in defence as players to keep an eye out for, and he couldn't have been more right.

DPMM FC head coach Simunic must take some positives from the fact that they were the last team in the league to surrender their undefeated record, but deep down he might admit that it would be a different story if he had the services of this first-choice defenders, who were all out due to suspensions.

After emerging as the surprise team of the league because of their spellbinding start and their position as leaders over three different periods, the pressure is now off DPMM to maintain their undefeated run.

For Home, the win moves them up one notch to sixth in the league.

But more importantly, the result will help boost some confidence in the side - one that have traditionally always been in the title race and now find themselves in unfamiliar territory.

With those three points now in the bag and DPMM FC back to earth after a remarkable start to their season, it remains to be seen how the second round of the 2009 season will shape out. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic faces the headache of having four of his first-choice defenders on the suspended list going into tonight's S-League match against Home Utd at the Clementi Stadium.

Rne Komar,Yuosf Salleh,Sairol Saari - all collected their fourth yellow cards of the season in their last league games,while Pg Sallehuddin was ent-off in the same game.

Though the backbone of the team's defence will be forced to watch tonight's gamefrom the stands, Simunic is confident that the replacements will be up to the task.

He was quoted as saying that Abd Aziz Tamit, Helmi Zambin, Safari Wahit and Hardi Bujang might start, with the latter  of a player capable of causing as damage down the flanks as Sairol.

But no matter who starts tonight, Simunic will remember that the suspended quartet have conceded only eight goals all season.Having started all 10 games, the team will have hard time adjusting to the new faces on the pitch.

For Home Unites's coach PN Sivaji, tonight's match is crucila in setting their titles hopes back on track.

Seventh in the league, the Protectors will be looking to maintain their undefeated record in the Clementi Stadium this season and inflict DPMM their first loss of their debut season.

"We are playing one of the league leaders so it is a high motivation for the players", he was quoted as saying on the S-League website.

"There is a lot of talk that the league is out of our hands but mathematically, it is not over yet for us.

"If we can't beat DPMM then we should seriously question that our title aspirations.I have no issue with the boys' desire and motivation. They are always ready to give 100 percent. 

"We can play badly and win 1-0 and I will be perfectly happy with that. Three points is what I am looking for ... to show that we are still in the running for the league title," added the former Singapore national team coach.

Simunic has identified Brazilian midfielder Peres de Oliveira, Japanese striker Norikazu Murakami and the Cameroon duo Valero Hick and striker Kengne Ludovick as players to watch for.

Brunei DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic's strategy of building a balanced 18-man squad from the start of the S-League season, will be put in good use for the game against Home United on Sunday at Clementi Stadium in Singapore.

Coming off a 1-0 win against Pelita Jaya in the RHB Singapore Cup, Brunei DPMM will be looking to carry on their momentum into the game against Home United.

However, Brunei DPMM will be missing four key players - captain Pg Sallehuddin Damit,Rene Komar, Yusof Salleh and Sairol Saari- who are all suspended for the game after picking up four yellow cards in previous matches.

Simunic is not worried of the four being suspended although they are the backbone of the defensive line.

"It's always my focus in building Brunei DPMM into a squad 18 balanced and in-depth players.It is now the right time to put the bench players to the test."

"Abdul Aziz Tamit,Helmi Zambin,Hardi Bujang, Safari Wahit may get the start this Sunday in replace of the suspended players," he said.

"I trust them, I work with them this week and I am sure the new starters will want to take the opportunity to perform well," he added.

On his preparation for the match, the Croatian coach said," We have watched numerous Home Utd matches and analysed their games.We will go to Singapore to do our best."

On Home's capability, Simunic said :"I have respect for Home United.They are one of the top teams in the league who have won titles.They have very good import players."

"It may be the toughest challenge for Brunei DPMM thus far this season especially looking at the situation that we are missing key players.

But all the games are tough in the S-League especially when all teams are looking to break our unbeaten record," Simunic said.

What a great couple of days as DPMM FC are on top of the S-League table and still unbeaten after 10 games.

If there's anything that shows the universality of football, it's the fact that DPMM FC have played more games away than home, and they are still going strong.Not to mention the passion shown by players and fans when the DPMM FC is on the show.

The last few days showed which teams stand-out in the S-League and which ones won't.

Most would agree that DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic is one confident man said, "DPMM go into every game looking for a win." Seems to be walking the walk, as the Croatian must have assessed SAF weakness after their loss against Kashima Antlers and gave Algerian Hamid Berguiga his debut.He repaid his faith by scoring one goal and created another in DPMM's 2-1 win against SAF FC.

Most DPMM fans are amazed with the depth and tactical discipline of DPMM's players but most would knowledge that the game against Indonesian  outfit Pelita Jaya in the Singapore Cup, is a whole new "ball Game", literally.

Coached by former Singapore legend Fandi Ahmad and boast five outfield Brazilians, DPMM FC need to be aware that tactical discipline alone would not carry them through the 90-minute match.

Since the start of the Singapore Cup in 1998, many of the top teams in the region have taken part in this knock-out competition.

DPMM's players need to step-up their performances and to adhere to Simunic's game plan(as most of their S-League's games, keep tight in midfield and avoid unnecessary loss of ball possession)

In Pelita's Brazilian imports Cristiano and Evilasio, Rene Komar and Co certainly would have their hands full.

Pelita Jaya are known to play with a 4-4-2 formation and are known to be an attacking outfit and are quick on the counter-attack.

Having former Pelita player Ivan Jerkovic would help Simunic plan his strategy against their opponents.

The insight of Pelita's game would certainly aid Simunic in his team's performance for tonight's game. DPMM FC would certainly go into the game with full confidence, but most fans will would fear any lapses in concentration would would cost them dearly.

Taking the game against SAF. After taking a two-goal lead, DPMM FC's engine seemed to have shut down.The result was a sudden resurrection of SAF players that lead to their goal in the 87th minute. Too late, but could have been too closely!

Against Pelita, DPMM would be up against two hard working and nippy midfielders, Djalaludin and Khusnul who can turn-the-tide of a game in a moment.

With Brazilian Bizarro leading the defence, Pelita Jaya can be menace to DPMM's great start in the season.

The game in Jalan Besar Stadium tonight is certainly a test for Simunic and his team. 

Abdel Hamid Berguiga repaid head coach Vjeran Simunic's trust in him by scoring the winner in DPMM FC's 2-1 victory against Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) FC in last night's S-League action to send the Bruneians back to the top of the league.

Handing the Algerian his first start of the season at home soil, Simunic - who celebrated his birthday yesterday- got just the present he was looking for when the striker created the first goal and scored the second.

The result stretches DPMM's win so far in the season at home, complete the first round matches at home with 3 points in every game.

"From Wardun to Hamid, my players were all excellent," said a shirtless Simunic after the game." We know their defenders Daniel Bennett and Urai the Japanese player were shaky when they played Gombak last month, so I put Hamid on the left and worked on getting long balls to him.

"We prepared very nicely for this game and we could scored five or six tonight," added the coach, having to speak above the noise of the home fans who were singing him Happy Birthday".

South Korean midfielder,Oh Ddog Yi's suspension for last night's game meant Hamid would be starting, and simunic will be hard pressed not to incluse him in the first eleven in the future after a shining display from the 35-year old who had immaculate control of the ball.

A constant threat to the defending champions back four, Hamid had a chance to open the scoring as early as the fifth minute but his header from a Shahrazen cross glanced inches wide of the left post.

He made amends for his miss two minutes later,providing a pin-point cross-field  pass to midfielder Ivan Jerkovic, who was left unmarked on the right and fired a low shot to the left which found the back of the net.

The Algerian,who can hardly speak a word of English  or Malay, had a chance to double the lead in the 22nd minute but his header was off the mark.

Midfielder Rosmin Khamis had a volley which sailed inches wide of the right post minutes later and Hamid's cheeky chip over SAF FC goalkeeper Alias agonisingly landed on the roof of the net.

Probably still recovering from their mid-week 5-0 loss against J-League champions Kashima Antlers, a result which saw them knocked out of the Asian football Federation Champions League in the group stage,SAF FC looked sluggish in midfield.

Hamid gave the visitors even more to worry about minutes after the restart when he glided past his marker from receiving a through ball from midfield and scored after the ensuing one on one agianst Alias.

The goal seemed to awaken SAF FC, who are the reigning Singapore Cup and League Cup champions, from their slumber and they slowly started getting into the game. With Ahmad Latif and Therdsak Chaiman assert their authority in midfield and staring the home side of the ball.

DPMM FC captain Pg Salehuddin received his marching orders in the 77th minute and SAF FC's waves of attack intensified after that.

SAF FC reduced the deficit with Therdsak's free-kick in the 87th minute which curled over the DPMM wall and into the back of the net.

In the end though,DPMM's defence held firm and they can now enjoy being on top of the league for the third time this season.

High-riding Brunei DPMM FC will be hoping to break the jinx if exiting the first round of the Singapore Cup for the past few years when they take on Indonesian club Pelita Jaya tomorrow night at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

Following a tough 2-1 win against S-League defending champion SAFFC on Sunday, Brunei DPMM FC will not have enough time to recuperate for the tough Indonesian encounter.

Brunei DPMM coach Simunic when met on training ground yesterday said: "It will be a big challenge for us this year, we want to break the jinx of losing in the first round of the Singapore Cup for the past five years."

"We celebrate a crucial win yesterday and now we have to play in the Singapore Cup on Wednesday. Maybe we could not recover completely but if can reproduce at least 75% of the performance against SAFFC, we will have no problem," he added.Simunic is in a dilemma of who should start first -Abdel Hamid or Ddog Yi - but the Croatian coach is keeping his option close to his chest till matchday.Abdel Hamid played a vital role in the win against SAFFC.The Algerian supplied a through ball for the opening goal and then scored Brunei DPMM's second.

On the Pelita Jaya team, Simunic said: "I managed to see one of their games and I feel the team is the same as Gombak or Tampines.They are a quality team in the Indonesian league which is one of the most competitive leagues in the region."

They have also some good players like Cristiano Lopes and Tiago Stragglioto of Brazil and Indonesian international player,Firman Utina. 

Brunei DPMM will be at full strength as penalties incurred at the S-League will not be counted for the Singapore Cup.

Simunic also applauded the team's rising performance with each matches progressed.

"Our team have been improving from each match in the league. From Tampines to Gombak and then SAFFC, we have done remarkably well.I hope the team will continue to perform in the Singapore Cup and also the S-League." 

Vjeran Simunic insists his players are unfazed ahead of arguably their biggest match of the S-League season against leaders Singapore Armed Forces on Sunday.

The DPMM head coach feels the key to their clash at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas - DPMM are currently second - will be playing their own game and not giving the league's defending champions too much respect.

Facing SAF in their first home game in more than a month, Simunic said he was encouraged by the pair of wins the club came up with in recent friendlies with local teams. 

"I am satisfied with our friendlies and it was a good preparation for us ahead of Sunday's big game," said Simunic on Tuesday.The players have been preparing as usual just like any other game, and I have told them to consider it nothing special."

"We have to play our game and not be too emotional about playing SAF," warned the Croatian.

Having not played at home since March 24 when Shahrazen Said's goal earned them a 1-0 win against Sengkang Punggol to propel DPMM to the summit of the league for the first time, Simunic admits that he is missing the atmosphere this Stadium. 

And with the coach celebrating his birthday on Sunday, a win which will see them dethrone SAF from the top is just the present he wants from his players.

"It has been a month since we have not played at home and we miss our fans and our stadium," said Simunic and hope we can get a full stadium for the match, and with the right attitude, I hope I can get a good birthday present from the players."

"I would like the team to repeat the good performances they have been coming up with lately, and if we play good game we can expect a good result," added Simunic, whose team have yet to lose a match in their debut S-League season.

Injured striker Md Abu Bakar Mahari is doubtful to even get a place on the bench while Korean midfielder Od Ddog Yi will play no part in the game due to suspension, picking up his fourth yellow card of the season in their last match against Albirex Niigata.

Brunei DPMM will be entertaining SAFFC at home on Sunday in a top of table clash without the service of inspirational Korean striker Oh Ddog Yi.

The Korean will be out of the crucial game after picking four yellow cards which carries a penalty of one suspension.

Brunei DPMM coach Siminic said in an interview,"Its bad news for Brunei DPMM that Korean striker Oh Ddog Yi will miss the game due to suspension after collecting four yellow cards in previous matches."

"With Oh out of the match, Abdel Hamid will be called upon in the starting line-up."

Simunic revealed that other key players like Rene Komar and Sairol Saari are also at risk after picking three yellow cards respectively, a card away of being suspended.

The Croatain coach is also worried about the condition of Abu Bkar Mahari who might also miss the SAFFC match-up.

"I am abit worried about Abu Bakar who sustained an ankle injury during training last Monday.He has already missed 6 days of training and we have only a few days to assess his situation," Simunic said.

However Simunic has urged hsi players to remain cool headed and calm for the Sunday clash.

"We are mentally prepared and we have to remain calm and cool headed. Like a lion, we can strike the opponent hard."

"I hope all local fans would come to the stadium to support our team on Sunday. I want to see a full stadium rooting for our players in thsi crucial game, he added.

SAFFC who were just handed a thumping defeat by J-League champion Kashima Antlers at the AFC Champions League in Tokyo last Wednesday may be out of steam when they arrived Brunei.

However, Simunic is cautious as SAFFC have been champions in the S-League for the past years and possessed some of the best players in the league.

A win on Sunday will not only send DPMM to the top of the table but also will be a perfect birthday gift for Simunic whose birthday falls on april 26. 

Brunei DPMM FC received a boost in its campaign to capture the S-League title through the form of sponsorship following a signing ceremony with seven sponsers at the Riverview Hotel last night.

The guest-of-honour who witnessed the signing ceremony was YAM Pg Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad PA Hj Abdul Rahim, the vice-chairman of Brunei DPMM FC.

The first sponsor to sign was Sri Sentosa Sdn Bhd, Pg Musa Pg Hj Jaafar, the Deputy General Manager and Major(Retired)Zaini Hj Salleh inked the agreement on behalf of Sri Sentosa.

On behalf of Maju Motors Sdn Bhd, Chan Key Hong, the Executive Director of the company with Hj Abd Rahman Tamit, the Public Relation Officer of Brunei DPMM signed the agreement.

Representing Mitsubishi Corporation to ink the deal were Osamu Ito, the General Manager and Hjh Rohayati Hj Damit.

On behalf of DST Communications Sdn Bhd, Ph Hj Azahari Pg Damit, the Corporate Communication Manager and Elixsurian Busu were on hand to sign the agreement.

Riverview Hotel Sdn Bhd was represented by Aung Zan Win, the assistant Food & Beverages Manager and Ted Teo, Front Manager Officer.

Representing Brunei Shell Marketing Co.Sdn Bhd to sign the agreement were Asli Lakim, the head of commercial and Hj Faisla Othman, Business and Development Advisor.

The final agreement was signed by Selamat Sahlam and Hj Ariffin Jumaat on behalf of Sports Partnership (LOTTO) Pte Ltd.

The signing of the sponsorship agreement was also timely iwth days before the crucial matchup between Brunei DPMM FC and SAFFC.The top of the table clash, will take place at the Hassanl Bolkiah National Stadium on Sunday at 8.15pm. 

Brunei DPMM FC will face an uphill battle against Pelita Jaya of Indonesia in the RHB Singapore Cup preliminary round that is scheduled to kick start on April 27.

The draw for the RHB Singapore Cup was made at the heart of the Central Business District of Singapore.

Pengiran Waslimin, the manager of Brunei DPMM FC when contacted by phone said,"It will be a tough game for both Pelita Jaya and us."

Brunei DPMM had played against Pelita Jaya in two friendly matches last year losing one(2-1) and a scoreless draw.

"Having played two friendly matches last year, both teams actually know each other's style of play quite well. However, we will try our best to win this time around at the RHB Singapore Cup," he said.

Meanwhile, according to a report in the S-League official website, former Singapore national team player Fandi Ahmad who is now the coach of Pelita Jaya quoted as saying "I am very excited about meeting DPMM FC".

"We played them twice in Brunei but I saw them played recently and they looked better now," he said. "Its our first time in this competition and hopefully we can add spice into the competition and go through to the final." 

DPMM FC became the first foreign side to reach the Singapore League Cup last night with a 2-1 win against Woodlands Wellington at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

Vjeran Simunic's men now need just one more win to complete a fairy-tale ending to the tournament - where they have been the surprise of the 19-day competition and cemented that reputation by beating the 2007 League Cup champions last night.

They will face either defending league champions SAF FC or Home United FC in the final on Friday, with the two teams facing each other in the second semi-final today. 

Though they are on a high after last night's win, DPMM will find themselves without two key players on Friday as captain and defender Pg Salehuddin and Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga - who scored the winner in the 56th minute - have been ruled out of the final.

Despite the loss of the duo, DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic was in an upbeat mood during the post match interview and was confident of beating SAF FC if they made it to the championship match.

"We are already champions because we have beaten SAF FCtwice this season," declared the Croatian.

"I am sorry we didn't score six or seven more goals because we had the chances ... It could have been 8-2."

"I am also sorry to have lost two of our players and I am sad that people will not be able to see a full strength DPMM FC in the final," said Simunic, who blamed the referee for forcing Berguiga to an early shower.

After a cagey first few minutes, Berguiga came up with DPMM's first chance in the 11th minute but his volley from outside the box was comfortably saved by the Rams goalkeeper Rezal Hassan.

The Bruneians got on the scoresheet in the 26th minute when Ivan Jerkovic lashed a free-kick into the topright corner after midfielder Ismadi Mukhtar as adjudged to have fouled Berguiga just outside the box.

DPMM have been gaining a reputation as a physical team as of late but it was their opponents who won that honour last night, coming up with four yellow cards in the first half alone.

Striker Oh Ddog Yi spurned a golden chance to double DPMM's lead two minutes later after the restart when Shahrazen Said squared a pass from the right only to see the South Korean shoot well wide off the right post.

But they got their two-goal cushion 13 minutes later when Berguiga finished a move he started, passing the ball to Sairol Sahri on the left and scoring with a header from the resultant cross to put the Bruneians' one foot into the final.

It could have been 3-0 in the 62nd minute but once again Oh's finishing was lacking, unsuccessfully trying to chip the ball over Rezal during a one-on-one situation.

Two minutes later Pg Sallehuddin was shown a yellow card, and the resigned look on the skipper's face left no doubt of disappointment at not being able to play in the final.

A mazy run by Shahrazen seconds later which saw him dribble past three players on the box could have killed the game but once again, finishing was to blame.

It was only in the 68th minute that Woodlands found their first shot on target, aheader from Iranain striker Mojtaba Tehranizadeh off a corner from the left which was saved by Wardun in between the DPMM posts.

But there was no stopping Tehranizadehin the 73rd minute when he caught the DPMM backline asleep and scored after dribbling past two players.

Croatian defender Rene Komar would prevent an equaliser from midfielder Jamil Ali in the 82nd minute to set up a tense last few minutes in which DPMM were forced to play with 10 men with Berguiga's dismissal three minutes before time.

But despite the number disadvantage, their defence stood firm and they are now only one win away from being crowned champions of the Singapore League. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic praised his team yesterday after their 2-2 draw with Albirex Niigata on Tuesday propelled them back to the summit of the S-League for the third time this season.

The surprise team of this year's S-League, the Croatian revealed that his charges were improving with each game and he feels they have what it takes to go all the way in their debut season.

Down twice in the game, Brunei's only professional football club clawed their way back at the Jurong East Stadium in Singapore to keep their undefeated record, thanks to Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga who netted in the 65th minute to open his account for the club.

"I am very satisfied with how we played against Albirex and we are growing from game to game," said Simunic in an interview yesterday.

"One year ago when I first came here I promised that I would change the players' mentality and that has happened."

"I want to make something happen with this generation of players...The best days for football in Brunei are coming and football in this country is going to change -  a hundred pre cent."

"Nineteen points from nine games is something nobody expected and people are saying this is crazy ... this is magic... it is out of this world! But even if we only had 9 points, I would still be satisfied with my players because I am happy how they play and they all have the right attitude," he added.

One of the players paid tribute to was Berguiga, whose striker ensured DPMM;s unbeaten run in the battle between the only two foreign teams in the league.

Substituting the 35-year old into the match in only the 20th minute, the move paid off when a free-kick from defender Rene Komar deep inside DPMM's half was met by striker Shahrazen Said, who flicked the ball to Berguiga to score against the Japanese outfit.

"I'm very happy with Berguiga scoring because I know how much it mans to him since we have langausge barrier and is having time adjusting," he said of the veteran Algerian. "He scored very important goal for usand he knows he really belong to the team now."

DPMM face arguably their toughest test far when they face reigning champions Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) on April 26.

Third-placed Gombak Utd have a chance of dethroning DPMM today when they face unbeaten,Tampines Rovers at the Jurong West Stadium tonight.

SAF FC can also regain the lead tomorrow when they play Super Reds FC at the Chou Chu Kang Stadium in Singapore. 

DPMM FC yesterday moved to closer to signing Croatian midfielder Drazen Govic from Croatia's first division HNK Sibenik.

Govic, who has been on trial with the Brunei club since last week, yesterday trained with the team at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium as DPMM prepared for their league match against Albirex today.

DPMM hope to sign the Croatian midfielder before the transfer window closes on July 24th.

Oh, who scored 12 goals for the Super Reds last season has not been at his best this season and has also found the back of the net only twice for DPMM.

Pg Hj Md Waslimin, the DPMM team manager, told that the the club had been given Oh a good chance to prove himself but he couldn't adapt to the team's style of play.

Govic meanwhile, said that he was very keen to join with the team.

"Ive been around town and think that this is a fantastic country.The club has a very ggod stadium too," said Govic after their training session yesterday."It is very different here and the weather is very hot.I hope that everything will proceed smoothly and I will be part of the team." 

When asked about this latest development, DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic said: "I don't know what the club will choose to do but Ddog Yi is not training with us anymore."

Simunic however, does know about Govic - having coached the player in Croatia.

"I do know Govic personally because I've coached him for five years back in Croatia," said Simunic yesterday. "Now it is up to him to pass the fitness test in Singapore so that he can return to Brunei to play with us."

The coach also rates Govic highly saying: "He is a very good player and probably one of the most famous to come here.He can almost be considered as one of the best players there in Croatia's first division.A lot of clubs want to sign him."I don't know why he decided to come here.Maybe it is more adventurous here," he added.

Having said that Simunic then turned his attention to today's game against Albirex Niigata.

"We want to concentrate on the game at the moment.I'm thinking of starting two strikers for the match," said the Croatian coach.

He expects the game to be difficult even though DPMM have not lose at home all season.

"We may not have lost at home this season but then we have to respect Albirex as they are a very good team.We had a tough 1-0 win the last time we met them in the League Cup," said Simunic.

The Croatian coach is also happy with the performance of his bench after the League Cup and is confident  that they are ready for tonight's match.

But there is one major problem for Simunic today.

"Defender Yusof Salleh is currently down with a fever so I'm thinking of putting Safari to start in his place," continued Simunic.

Albirex Niigata coach Naruo Naoki, expects a very tough game with the Bruneians.

"We just have to do our best as they have not dropped any points at their home ground," Naoki told the S-League website. 

Albirex Niigata wlll have a full squad for their visit to Brunei today.

DPMM FC have lost two of their previous games in a row - both away from home , first to Sengkang Punggol and then Tampines Rovers - and are looking to return to winning ways against the Japanese outfit. DPMM are currently placed fourth in the 12-team table on 32 points. 

DPMM FC have striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga to thank for regaining the lead in the Singapore League after the Algerian's goal in the 65th minute earned the side a 2-2 draw against Albirex Niigata last night.

His first goal for the club,Berguiga's striker at the Jurong East Stadium in Singapore propels DPMM back to the summit of the 12-team league and send reigning champions Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) to second.

The battle between the two foreign teams in the league saw the Japanese outfit score first through striker Kenji Adachihara in the 10th minute after he received a cross from the right and fired home from close range.

Striker Shahrazen Said bagged his second goal of the season in the 41st minute to equalise for the visitors to set the score at 1-1 going into the halftime break.

Midfielder Rosmin Khamis's free kick from the left was met by Croatian Ivan Jerkovic, but goalkeeper Yo***o Matsu***a was only able to parry the shot to the awaiting Shahrazen.

Kunihiro Honda fired Albirex back in front five minutes after the restart when the DPMM defence failed to clear another cross from the right. allowing the midfielder to pounce on the ball.

The 35-year old Berguiga, who was substituted in the 20th minute for midfielder Azwan Salleh, equalised 15 minutes later to ensure a share of the points.

A free-kick from defender Rene Komar deep inside DPMM's half was met by Shahrazen, who flicked the ball to Berguiga to open his account for the club.

"It was a great result for us and I am happy to have scored a goal and created another," said Shahrazen in a telephone interview after the match."We want to maintain this position and we know we will have to work hard for it.We know that we face a tough fight from SAF who can reclaim the lead on Friday since they are playing Super Reds FC."

Shahrazen added that third-placed Gombak Utd also have a chance of dethroning DPMM tomorrow when they face Tampines at the Jurong West Stadium in Singapore.

Their first draw of the season, the result pushes Albirex up three spots to sixth.

DPMM's next game is on april 26 against SAF FC at the Hassanal Bolkaih National Stadium,  their first home game in nearly a month.

S-League action resumes tonight with 10th placed Home facing cellar-dweller Sengkang at the Bishan Stadium in Singapore.

Brunei DPMM FC will be putting their undefeated record on the line when they face Albirex Niigata in the league match at the Jurong Stadium tonight.

Team morale is on a record high for Brunei DPMM after knocking Gombak United off the perch with a 2-1 win last week. Following the match against Gombak United on Friday, Brunei DPMM opted to stay back in Singapore for the game against Albirex Niigata.

With five wins and three draws in eight matches, new boys Brunei DPMM have yet to lose a match in S-League.

On same points but separated by a goal difference, Brunei DPMM will be looking for a win to overtake current leaders SAFFC who will only be playing on Thursday, April 16 against Super Reds.

Albirex Niigata are a Japanese outfit with only one Korean player, midfielder Park Myung Eun and their dangermen Akira Takase and Kenji Adachihara.

At home turf, Albirex have been impressive winning three out of four games.Albirex manager Brasoveanu is hoping to use his home advantage to conjure up a win against Brunei DPMM.

According to report in the S-League official website, Brasoveanu said : "Out of the four games that we played at home, we won three.But considered that this is a young team, consistency has always been an issue. Hopefully we can take advantage of our home ground and play well against DPMM."

"We are always optimistic and positive as we prepare for every game.It does not serve any purpose for us to be worried about our opponents.We should only concentrate on how we play our football on the end of the day," said Brasoveanu.

Meanwhile, Pg Waslimin, the Brunei DPMM manager when contacted yesterday said: "Although we expect a tough game tomorrow in their home ground, we are confident of bagging all three points following a crucial away win against Gombak." 

"All first 11 are expected to play as there are no injury woes," he added. 

Winger, Sairol Sahri fired DPMM FC to the top of the league once again last night scoring two free-kicks to beat Gombak United 2-1 at the Jalan Besar Stadium, last night.

DPMM Fc were at the summit of the table for two days ladt month after their 1-0 win against Sengkang Punggol on March 24, but they dropped down to third when reigning champions Singapore Armed Forces FC and Gombak came up with wind in their respective matches.

Last night's top of the table clash between DPMM FC and Gombak gave the visitors a chance to reclaim the lead, and they got off a dream start when Sairol Saari found the back of the net through a free-kick on the third minute to score his second of the season.

His shot from the right floated past the entire Gombak defence and into the left netting, evading a flat-footed Fadhil Salim in between the Gombak goalposts.

It was the home side that threatened first though, taking hardly thirty seconds for Kingsley Njoku to connect on a cross from Nigerian Emmanuel Emujeraye on the right.

However, his well-taken volley rebounded off the cross bar, much to the relief of the raucous visiting fans.

Agu Camir had a shot that was cleard off the line by DPMM defender Yusof Salleh in the 12th minute and the Singaporeans would continue to control most of the first half.

Fully exploiting their height advantage,Gombak sent in numerous crosses into the box and one such attempt saw DPMM goalkeeper Wardun Yusof forced to make his first save of the night to deny Njoku in the 18th minute.

They finally equalised in the 29th minute when striker Emmanuel Emujeraye made the most of the mix-up between defender Rene Komar and Wardun, sliding past the Croatian libero to score with a low shot which gave the onrushing Wardun no chance at all.

DPMM FC continued to be bombarded with aerial threats, with Njoku responsible for a header in the 36th minute and a low shot to the right in the 44th minute to force Wardun into action.

Gombak started the second half the way they finished the first but they shifted down a few gears after a few minutes and allowed DPMM into the game.

Coming into prominence in the second half, midfielder Ivan Jerkovic had a golden opportunity to double DPMM's lead in the 47th minute after receiving a pass from Sairol Saari to unlock Gombak's defence and create a one-to-one situation with Fadhil.

In hindsight,Jerkovic probably should have brought the ball down to his feet after receiving it since his cheeky lob was too light and the goalkeeper managed to get his fingertips to it.

The visitors had several chances to threten through set-pieces but their delivery was poor and they failed to make the most of the opportunities gifted to them as the Gombak defenders scrambled to mark their men.

DPMM FC corrected all that in the 73rd minute when Sairol scored an almost identical goal to his first, sending the numerous DPMM fans who made the trip to the Jalan Besar Stadium into celebration.

Defender Sevki Sha'ban came up with a tame header which was comfortably saved by Wardun just seconds later, but the ball was nearly in the back of the other net again in the 75th minute when South Korean striker Oh Ddog Yi saw his shot on goal frantically cleared off the line by defender Jaslee Hatta.

Gombak should have found their equalising goal in the 80th minute when Casmir made a space inside the box for a header, but it floated right into the arms of Wardun.

Sairol had a chance to score a hat-rick a minute from time but his free-kick from a similar position as the first two was saved by Fadhil.

The win maintains DPMM's unbeaten streak in their debut S-League season, a record they share with Tampines Rovers.

For Gombak however, it was their first loss of the campaign and they now sit in second - a point adrift of DPMM.

DPMM FC's next game will be against Albirex Niigata at the Jurong East Stadium next Tuesday and they will not be returning to Brunei until Wednesday. 

Brunei DPMM FC head coach,Vjeran Simunic suggested that tonight's encounter against the table-toppers Gombak United will be a big test for the team for the S-League match at the Stadium Jalan Besar.

"Gombak United's performance have shown that they are a team a beat and with their quality players,they will be able to be the future champions," said the head coach.

Whatever their quality abilities, Simunic believe all his players can give a good fight and make the most of it in tonight's game.

Simunic also give a 100% hope for the substitutes bench, and believe that this year's players is much beter than the previous years.

According to him,their determination that have shown from the beginning if the season have been paid off, that can be shown by their standings in the league, and the beginning of attraction of the local fans.

On top of that, the advantage that they have is a weapon to take chances to topple Gombak in tonight's league encounter.

"We will see on our final preparation to determine our striking option.

All the players have a chance to play,however we will give priority to create a better line-up to overcome the home team," he said.

On the last game,Simunic preferred to use Md Shahrazen partnering Oh Ddog Yi upfront in the first half before putting on Hamid Berguiga in the second. On the other hand,Abu Bakar Mahari's service are also needed to create options upfront.

Simunic is happy that all the players are in an injury-free and this gives an easy route for the coach to determine the first eleven for tonight.

Brunei DPMM and Gombak are still having a record without loss after seven games with Gombak in top spot in the league and DPMM third. 

Brunei DPMM FC aim to topple table-toppers Gombak United when they clash in the league match tomorrow at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

The tide may have tilted in favour of Brunei DPMM FC as Gombak leading striker Ojimi Obatola will not play after collecting four yellow cards.

However,Brunei DPMM's biggest disadvantage is the synthetic grass of the stadium which they are still not accustomed to playing in such surface.

Brunei DPMM coach said in an interview yesterday: "Gombak which scored three goals against SAFFC,last year's league champions, deserved to be on top f table.We are unlucky to play away and the synthetic grass is the biggest worry for us.It's not easy for the players but we will do our best to face Gombak United."

"We are currently in a comfortable position and we want to move forward," Simunic added.

"I expect the same game against Tampines when we face Gombak. However, if we are playing in Brunei, I am sure we can put a very good fight," the coach said when asked about the game tomorrow.

Regarding the team fitness, Simunic assured the players are physically and mentally ready for the challenge.

Simunic also cleared the air on speculation that he doesn't like some of the players by saying: "I have been here for more than a year to build a compact team and relationship between myself and the players are wonderful."

"I am satisfied with the players, especially the imports.Now we are trying to communicate with Abdel Hamid who does not speak English, and only French.I am trying to speak French and he is trying to speak English," he reiterated.

"The speculation in the Singapore media is untrue.I trust my players well and my players trust me. There might have been a misunderstanding," he said.

The Croatian also said, "The Singapore League is one of the best leagues in the region, all teams are good and have an equal chance of winning.We must take each game at a time and to take points from each game to reach our target.I hope that none of our players sustain any injuries from each of the games."

Local football fans can watch the match-up between Brunei DPMM and Gombak United live on RTB2 courtesy of Maju Motor tomorrow night at 7.30pm. 

A world class free-kick by Thailand international midfielder Sutee Suksomkit earned Tampines Rovers a deserved 1-1 draw against DPMM FC in the league match at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore last night.

Renowned for his dangerous left foot,the 28-year old Thai willingly displayed his ability to score from free-kicks when he curled one past the wall and into the right netting in the 75th minute just outside the box, giving DPMM FC goalkeeper, Wardun Yusof no chance.

The draw that means that both teams maintain their unbeaten run in this year's campaign, with DPMM remaining in third with 15 pointsand Tampines fourth with 11 points.

The visitors were never really able to assert control in the match,largely due to their midfield which was unable to make its mark in the centre of the park.

To their credit, DPMM FC were technically and defensively sound, playing impressive man-to-man defence which prevented two time S-League champions Tampines Rovers from finding the back of the net from open play.

The fact that DPMM FC libero Rene Komar was named Man of the Match show just how important the team's defence was in securing the draw, with the Croatian's most important contribution being perhaps his awareness to clear off a shot off the line by Tampines Japanese midfielder Akihiro Nakamura just seconds after Sutee had equalised.

Lacking possession and quality on the ball, the Bruneians were lucky that winger Sairol Sahri's cross from the left saw Tampines defender Shariff Abd Samat put the ball into his own net with a diving header to hand them a surprise lead in the 63rd minute.

But despite the goal, the DPMM FC players did not awake from their slumber and were forced to continue playing on the back foot until Sutee equalised 12 minutes later.

Sutee, a player English Premiership side Chelsea had their eyes four years ago, had a chance to open the scoring in the 19th minute but Wardun was up to the challenge and parried his low shot to the right post to concede a corner.

Tampines had the lion's share of corners and it was only in the 47th minute that DPMM were able to get their first, with the Stags already notching up seven by this point.

Both teams found it tight in midfield for the first 20 minutes and were unable to find an avenue to attack that paid off, though the home side definitely looked the more threatening of the two.

Tampines were able to carve some chances but their finishing were lacking, forcing them to go into the dressing room at half time with a goaless draw.

The substitution of experienced Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga for the ineffective South Korean Oh Ddog Yi was perhaps DPMM 's head coach Vjeran Simunic's smartest move.

The animated Croatian was on the touchlines shouting instructions to his charges for most of the match but at least Berguiga did not get any of the abuse, doing a superb job of holding the ball and dribbling to create space.

The 35-year old hitman almost opened his account for the club in the 60th minute but his header from striker Shahrazen Said's pass agonisingly hit the woodwork, leaving Tampines goalkeeper Hassan Sunny rooted to the spot.

Sairol's cross minutes later provided the Bruneians some reprieve after Shariff headed the ball into his own net, but the confidence they gained after the goal soon evaporated.

Not being able to string passes together and craft chances, were made to pay with Sutee's screamer which sent the home fans into wild celebration.

DPMM FC's next match is against Gombak United at the Jalan Besar Stadium next Friday. 

Brunei DPMM FC's chances to climb up the standings is up for grabs although they will have to play a tough encounter against Tampines Rovers in Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore tonight at 7.30pm.

Brunei DPMM, currently having a consistency reputation so far, will be the key weapon for the team to try to upbeat Tampines, another team who has been unbeaten so far in the league.

"We have to be more careful in this upcoming match, as they are becoming more stronger in each of their games.Although we will be fully prepared to test them getting points," said the head coach,Simunic.

Although the home team comprises good quality players including their imports Akihiro Nakamura and Sutee Suksomkit,Brunei DPMM also have their qualities as an away team.

"What is most important are the players performed well with consistency and taking their chances well.Any mistakes will be vital ," he added.

Simunic will stick to the original line-up, as the defences have been quite solid, having three consecutively clean sheets.Mohd Shahrazen has already put on his scoring boots on, the fans will be hoping he will score today.

Brunei DPMM is currently third in the league, four points ahead of Tampines, currently fourth on the table. 

DPMM FC's head coach Vjeran Simunic urges his players to stay focussed when they face Woodlands Wellington FC tonight at 7.45 pm at the Woodlands Stadium in Singapore.

"We are now only concentrating on the game against Woodlands.I have a respect for Woodlands even though they are now in a bad position in the league.DPMM FC stil cannot take them lightly.As we all know there were many surprise results in the past and we cannot judge the team by their position in the league,SO I need them to be fully focussed tomorrow," said Simunic in the interview with the Brunei Times yesterday.

The Croatian also demands his players to take each game individually as they enter their final three games of the S-League this season.DPMM FC will face Hougang United on Wednesday and Balestier Khalsa on November 2.

"We targeted to finish at Top 5 in the league this year and I am already happy that we managed to do that.

"If we are to finish this year it is still ana chievement after three years of no professional football and moreover we have won one title this year, the Singapore League Cup.However Harimau Muda is not an easy opponent for the tampines.If we manage to win and Tampines drop points, we can still win the league," Simunic added.

DPMM FC will be without their key central defender Tales Ricarte Dos Santos for the rest if their S-League campaign after suffering a knee injury.

"That is one problem for me, he is our key defender and he wil be out for the rest of the season.He needs an operation in his right knee.

"After the game against Home Utd, he totally cannot play anymore,"Simunic continued.

"But luckily, we had a long break, it was a nice break and we recovered Pg Sallehudin Damit from injury.He is ready now and will replace Santos in the defence for the rest of the defence,"added Simunic.

The Brazilian centreback will be flying back home next week to get treatment.

"I got this injury after the Harimau Muda game. When we played against Home, I was not 100 per cent fit.Then I went to check for MRI and they sid I get problem with my right knee," Santos said.

"I will go back to Brazil, hopefully next week, to get treatment there. I will only be back in February next year so I will miss the remaining matches in S-League," he added. 

Brunei DPMM Fc forward Shahrazen Said is confident of scoring against Tampines Rovers in the coming S-League match at Stadium Jalan Besar on Friday night.

The talented forward has found his scoring boots following the winning goal on the 60th minute against Sengkang Punggol on March 24 at home.

When met at training session yesterday, Shahrazen said he was lucky to score in the last match.

"I were under tremendous pressure from fans and the coach to break my goal drought in the last game.At last I managed to fulfill my promise.I was a bit worried at first."

On the goal he said "The ball was on the way down towards me and I just hit the ball not too hard and it curled away from the keeper and into the net."

On the game against Tampines he said: "I will try to score and the goal against Sengkang has renewed my confidence in scoring."

Meanwhile Brunei DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic will be cautious against Tampines who are in fourth place just four points adrift from third-placed DPMM.

"Tampines are like a dream team, they have nine very good import players," Simunic added.

"They have talented players like Akihiro Nakamura from Japan and Sutee Suksomkitof Thailand.They have the national team Singaporean goalkeeper and Noh Alam Shah, the captain of the Singapore national team."

"We are proud to face a club like Tampines, it will not be n easy game.

"We can't say about the result now, we will try to perform our best."

"The odds are against Brunei DPMM with the synthetic grass in Jalan Besar posing a challenge to the team.

"However, with the 10-day break,Brunei DPMM are all set to face Tampines Rovers." 

On Shahrazen the coach said" "I am happy that he scored in the previous game.

He is an important and key player in the team.He is a defensive and attacking forward and without him, it will be hard for us."

The match will be telecast live on RTB2 from 7.30 pm on Friday. 

Shahrazen Hj Md Said  fired DPMM FC to the top of the Singapore League(S-League) last night after his goal in the 61st minute against Sengkang Punggol saw the Bruneians earn a 1-0 win at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Unbeaten since the start if the season, the striker's first goal of the campaign ensured that DPMM's record remains intact and the club can now bask in the glory of being at the summit of the 12-team league six matches into their debut match.

Underfire by some for not finding the net despite starting regularly, the 23-year old proved his critics wrong last night with a dipping volley from outside the box just past the hour mark. 

Falling to his knees in celebration,the Malaysian Super League's top scorer two seasons silently rejoiced for having broken his duck.

The goal capped off a period of pressure which began a few minutes after the restart, with Shahrazen timing his shot well to connect on the ball after a Sengkang defender headed it in his direction in what was a poor clearance from a DPMM corner.

The dismissal of Sengkang defender, Jerry Bertholomeusz in the 75th minute after being a second yellow card for his arguing with the referee - his first coming earlier when he kicked a water bottle onto the pitch - should have meant another goal, but none materialised.

Sengkang seemed content to pile players behind the ball and absorb the pressure but DPMM managed to carve a trio of chances to double their lead, all coming from players who started on the bench.

Substituted into the game at the start of the second half for midfielder Rosmin Khamis, the Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga almost opened his accout in the 79th minute. 

Catching Sengkang keeper Fahmy Rahman off his line, the 35-year old tried a cheeky goal with a sublime left-footed shot from the left-corner flag but the attempt sailed inches wide off the far post.

Nine minutes later it was midfielder Hardi Bujang who came closest from scoring, but his long range shot curled wide off the right post.

Striker Abu Bakar Mahari, who replaced Shahrazen in the 78th minute, had a chance to add to his tally of two goals this season but his shot after receiving a cross from Abdel Hamid on the left was saved by Fahmy.

The Dolphins never really threatened after Shahrazen's opener, with their best chance comingfrom Canadian striker Anthony Bahadur who was flagged for offside after creating space on the right abd unleashing a shot but was saved by the keeper.

In the dying seconds of the match,Abdoulaye Diallo had a long range shot which was comfortably saved by Wardun - though many a fan were breathing sighs of relief when the goalkeeper calmly prevented the desperate attempt by the Guinean to find an equaliser.

After a lacklustre first quarter hour, DPMM started asserting control with strong runs from midfield by Hj Md Subhi Abdilah on the right.

But without anyone to spark in attack in the final third, the home side seldom looked like finding the back of the net.

Shahrazen came the closest in the 38th minute after cutting past two players on the left but his shot sailed harmlessly wide off the crossbar.

Wardun was hardly troubled, only called into action in the 25th minute when he was forced to save a volley from Diallo and again in the 37th minute when he dived fearlessly to the ground to prevent the oncoming Sengkang captain Indra Shahdan Daud from scoring.

For DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic, the victory went a long way in proving not only Shahrazen's naysayers wrong but also the club's with the Croatian stating that Sengkang were out to hand them their first defeat.

"They(Sengkang)came here to dethrone us, and fight for Singapore, but they now return very ashamed because we are on top of the league," said Simunic.

"Many people were saying we would be bottom but you have to turn the table upside down now to find us

"It was a wonderful game and we played very very well... I know the the players were motivated because of the full stadium."

"I am very happy with the crowd today and I think there are 20,000 fans here ... Maybe in our next game we will get 30,000."

"I know that Bruneians love football and this game shows them that they have a team worth watching. They watch on the television games which Chelsea play ... Liverpool play."

"Why watch that when you have your very own Chelea and Liverpool here?" he asked.

Simunic added that though he felt the team deserved a second goal, he was happy that Shahrazen had scored because he knew the striker was under pressure. 

DPMM FC is going into tonight's Singapore League(S-League) clash against Sengkang Punggol knowing that a win for them will send them reach the summit of the league for the first time this season.

Third in the league after three wins and two draws, Vjeran Simunic's men are undefeated in their debut S-League season and will be looking to maintain that record when their match against 10th place Sengkang kicks off at 8.15pm.

But defending champions and second-placed Singapore Armed Forces(SAF)taking on Albirex tomorrow and Woodlands Wellington facing leaders Gombak United in the other match of the day, at least a win tonight for DPMM a little bit will pressurize the other teams in their matches.

"We are in a dream situation going into the game and we must be proud of the result we have achieved thus so far," declared Simunic yesterday. 

"Last year their coach(Jorg Steinbrunner) was in charge of Woodlands and they only lost once, so we are expecting a very tough game."

"They will be here to dethrone us of our undefeated status, but if we win , we can celebrate being first in the league - even if just for a day."

"We are not afraid if anybody... But at the same time we respect everybody," added the Croatian.

With two of Singapore's most well-known players on their side,Sengkang have every reason to be confident of beating DPMM tonight.

Ex-Singaporean national team captain and defender Aide Iskandar and current Singapore national team captain strikerIndra Shahdan Daud - are the two names sure to start.

Imports like Canadian striker Anthony Bahadur and compatriot in defence Murphy Wiredu also add stregth to the team, with Guinean midfielder Abdoulaye Diallo and Japanese defender/ midfielder Hiroyuki Yamamoto also expected to deliver.

Despite not scoring this season, Simunic is not worried about the performance of striker Shahrazen Said, the Malaysian Super League joint top-scorer two seasons ago.

"I do not care that he has not scored yet, he is one of our best players and in my opinion it is not a must for strikers to score," said Simunic."We play with teamwork and Shahrazen always does an excellent job keeping the defenders busy and he also gets a lot of corners.After defender Rene Komar, I think he is our best player in the air."

The Croatian also praised South Korean striker Oh Ddog Yi, who scored his first goal of the seasonduring the team's 1-0 win against Balestier Khalsa last week.

Though he called it a "good performance", Simunic said that Oh and Algerian striker Abd Hamid Berguiga still has to adapt to the team - especially the latter, who can speak neither English nor Malay.

The team's top-scorer at the moment, Abu Bakar Mahari, will be on the bench again but the fans are hoping the Simunic will substitute the Tutong-native into the game in the second half.

He has been an effective substitute, coming off the bench twice to score the goals against the Young Lions on Feb 27 and the winning goal against Super Reds on March 4.

"We won two games with goals coming late in the match, so for me it is very important who finishes the game, not who starts," explained  Simunic. 

Simunic said DPMM will use its 10-day break after tonight's match to practice more. 

Brunei DPMM's away win against Balestier Khalsa in Tao Payoh Stadium begins to open the eyes of the other clubs in the S-League.

The solitary win away from home put DPMM in third spot in the league, with three wins and two draws.

However,the team under guidance of Vjeran Simunic is still a point behing SAF, and two points behind the league leaders GombakUtd.

"I am happy with the players giving good fight in the league although we are still very new in the S-League," said the DPMM head coach,Vjeran Simunic.

However, Simunic said that the scheduled of games are quite tight, injuries will occur easily.but the substitute bench are also quite strong.

The Croatian head coach who always made good strategy each of the matches able to pressurize each of the opposing teams.

The improvement of the local players in every position with the addition of the import players have also contributed well within the team.

Although Md Shahrazen have not contributed any goals, his performance have assisted the team with scoring opportunities while Abu Bakar Mahari has also contributed important goals after coming in from the bench.

The Korean striker,Oh Ddog Yi has also beginning to score while Abd Hamid is also quite impressive.

Brunei DPMM will await Senkang Punggol in the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on Tuesday 

DPMM FC striker Oh Ddog Yi opened his S-League account last night with a goal in the 35th minute to hand the team a 1-0 win against wooden spoonist Balestier Khalsa.

The South Korean has impressed in front of goal most of his times with the Super Reds last season, and last night's striker at the Toa Payoh Stadium maintains the club's unbeaten run, with the result their third win in five games played.

But despite the victory, DPMM were not able to jump to second because of Gombak's stoppage time winner against Young Lions in the other match.

DPMM's win last night will not doubt send the correct signals to the club's hierarchy, who earlier this week repaid their trust in head coach Vjeran Simunic by handing him a one-year extension to his contract.

Though they had several chances in front of goal, the visitors were unable to find the breakthrough until ten minutes from the break.

A constant danger on the flanks,midfielder Sairol Sahri sent in a cross from the left which the Balestier defence was unable to clear the safety. 

A poor header was pounced ipon by the 24-year old Oh, who scored 12 goals for Super Reds last season.

DPMM's next game will be at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on Tuesday against Sengkang Punggol.A difficult encounter as Sengkang is well known for their fighting qualities. 

Brunei DPMM FC's coach Vjeran Simunic has warned his players not to underestimate bottom of the league,Balestier Khalsa when both teams meet in the league tomorrow night at Toa Payoh Stadium tomorrow night.

In an interview yersterday, Simunic said: "We are a new team in the league and Balestier Khalsa have been in the league for many years.They are an experienced team.Although they are currently at the bottom of the league that doesn't mean they would not put up a good fight."

"Currently, we are in a good positionand we want to continue to play well to bring the unbeaten run back home for the next home game against Senglang Punggol on March,24."

"With an unbeaten streak against Balestier, our confidence will be boosted and we will play better in front of the home fans," Simunic added. 

On the players, he said: "With a week's break our players are recovering and I expect a better show from them. However, Shahrazen is still in doubt after missing a training session yesterday while Abdul Hamid's fitness is still suspect for the full 90 minutes."

On Brunei DPMM FC's four imports, he said: "I am still observing Abdel Hamid Berguiga and Oh Ddog Yi, both footballers are still very new to me.Both are good strikers but how they can communicate with each other, we will have to see.Rene Komar and Ivan Jerkovic are no strangers to me.Rene has been with DPMM for years while I knew Ivan back in Croatia."

He reiterated that the new imports still need time to adapt themselves to the team.

"I am not satisfied with Hamid and Ddog Yi when they didn't play much defence against Geylang United," he added.

On the reason for signing another year's contract with DPMM, the coach said: "When I came from Croatia, I left a club which is very similar with DPMM."

"I came here to change a team. I work hard for the team and now, the team has improved.If I can't change a team, I will leave.

As fans can see, we have improved with each game.And I hope one day the stadium will be full with fans supporting the team."

Balester Khalsa who were at the bottom of the league last year have three South American and one American import players.They are Julio eduardo of Chile, Eduardo Moura and Ithamar Rangel of Brazil and Seth Galloway from USA.

The game between Brunei DPMM and Balestier Khalsa will kick start at 7.45pm. 

DPMM FC and Geylang played to a goaless draw last night at the Bedok Stadium.

 But though they did create several chances and hit the post once, they were unbale to find the back of the net - their first goaless game of the season.

 The draw cements DPMM's third place while Geylang leapfrogged Home Utd into fifth.

"We played well and it was a good performance overall, but we were just unlucky," lamented Pg Waslimin after the match. 

"We even managed to hit the post and forced their goalkeepr some good saves...But it was not our night."

The Bedok Stadium has long been notorious for not allowing visiting teams to leave with a share of points, but Pg Waslimin said that the atmosphere at the 4,000 venue lastnight was nothing the league's newest team could handle.

As expected Algerian striker Abdel Hamid Berguiga was handed his full debut last night making it the first time in 4 games that the team has started with all four imports.

DPMM can now enjoy a one week break before their next match against basement dwellers Balestier Khalsa at the Toa Payoh Satdium next Thursday. 

Brunei DPMM will be looking to extend its unbeaten run at the S-League when they face Geylang United away on Thursday, March 12 at Stadium Bedok in Singapore.

Its not easy for opponents to win points at the home of Geylang United,also known as the Eagles.

Brunei DPMM coach Vjeran Simunic also acknowledged that Geylang United's advantage of never losing on home ground.

In an interview yesterday, the Croatian coach said" "The game against Geylang Utd will be a very open game because Geylang have never been defeated at home.They are a home-based team with huge supporters."

However he said, "After a win against the Woodlands, we will carry the momentum to face Geylang and try to continue our undefeated record.We will play the same spirit as we did in the previous games against Super Reds ans Woodlands.I hope we can get all three points from the game."

"We just recovered from a big game against the Woodlands, and in two days time, we have to face Geylang Utd away in Singapore.I know about Geylang Utd, they are one of many good teams in the S-League with 4 experienced imports that are regulars in the S-League, especially Miroslav Latiak  and Ratislav Belicak of Slovakia are very good players and they might cause us few problems," he added.

Touching on the issues of exhaustion after playing three games within a week,Simunic said: "At the moment, everyone is fit to play.I will bring the usual first starting 11 to Singapore.However, if any player feel that they are too tired or not feeling well enough to start, we have ready and capable players to stand in for replacement.So I am not worried."

On Brunei DPMM FC's impressive run, he said: "We are in comfortable situation for us to have won twice and fre once in the first three games in the league.But we can't be complacent, we will continue to fight until our last breath for a win."

Speaking about the new import,Abdel Hamid Berguiga of Algeria, the coach revealed the player is under immense stress because it's the first time that he has joined club overseas.And currently, we are still trying to build a common communication with him because he can only speaks Arabic and French. 

Brunei DPMM climbs up another ladder after they defeated Woodlands Wellington making them lied in third spot - a great achievement so far.

The elite local team are one of the 5 undefeated teams in this one of the top 10 leagues in Asia and has becoming a threat for the other teams and this tells the other teams that they are serious in this league.

On top of that head coach, Simunic wants the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium  to be so called the "impossible" for the visitors team and they have shown bt defeating the runners-up last season,Super Reds and beating Woodlands with a same score.

"Discipline and high motivation are major factors that led to the team's current form.The arrival of local fans that have been increasing also led to the team's form," said Simunic that urge the visitors team to go home empty handed every time playing in Brunei.

On the other hand, Simunic believe that the other teams are also cautious when they are playing with us, so he urges his boys to doubled the effort to stregthen the teamwork of the team.

"All the teams in this league are very good.The league standings will change constantly.We also don't want to be left behind," he said.

The arrival of the Algerian striker, Abdel Hamid Berguiga that completes the 4 imports for DPMM came at the right time.

He just received his International Transfer Certificate(ITC) several days ago and play the last 30 minutes and he really showed his class in the game although he came less than 48 hours before the game long way from Africa.

His physique and speed gave a positive impact and the other night, he proved that his presence really gave a hard time for the Woodlands defenders which led to a penalty   that give DPMM a win.

"We hope Abdel will give more contribution to the team.He will be able to give confidence to the team," added Simunic after watching his debut against the Woodlands.

DPMM FC's chances to improve their standings in the league are very open when they will host Woodlands Wellington this Sunday.

The team who is coached by Croatian, Vjeran Simunic is now lied in fourth place, tied with Home United with 4 points but DPMM having a game in hand.

"I am confident if the players having the same reputation and the will to win,they will be able to grab another 3 points this Sunday," said Simunic.

The coach realised with the tight schedules of the upcoming games, the team has to be in a very fit situation in the following weeks.

However, with some injuries concern with some of the players, it will not be a reason for DPMM to be fully ready and focussed for the game this Sunday.

In addition, Simunic is looking forward to play Woodlands when they lost to them last year in the Singapore RHB Cup in Singapore.

"I have seen them playing in their last 2 games.They are quite a good team but we have our advantages," said Simunic.Simunic will definitely stick with their first elevens in the last 2 matches.

However,Simunic will remind his boys to be aware with their import players.Two goals by the Woodlands in their last two games are from their duo import Zakaria Yosif of Egypt and forward Majtab Tehranizadeh of Iran.

However, our strikers have to work hard to stop their defenders, Luis Hicks of Chile and Daniel Hammond of England.

It was Md Abu Bakar Mahari to the rescue again last night, scoring in the 84th minute of DPMM's match against Super Reds FC to give the Brunei side their first win of their debut Singapore League(S-League) season.

The 2-1 victory was a result of DPMM's excellent performance in the second half, never giving up the fight despite going behind as early as the 11th minute when midfielder Jeon Byung Euk netted from the penalty spot  after DPMM midfielder Sairol Sahri was judged to have harshly tackled Yu Hyun Koo in the box.

Though the star striker Shahrazen Said was forced out of the game - with what looks to be a recurrent ankle injury - hardly a minute after the restart, the team's attack was at the capable feet of his replacement Md Abu Bakar, who scored the equaliser during the Brunei's team 1-1 draw with the Young Lions in their first match last week.

Shahrazen's injury, seemed to spur his teammates on and they embarked on waves after waves of attack  -  rewarded by the most unlikeliest of players.

Defender Yusof Salleh's free kick from 25 yards out curled past Kang Su Ho in between the Super Reds goalposts and found the top left corner in the 61st minute to draw level for the home side, and from then on, the fans would settle for nothing less than a win in the side's first home game of the season.

DPMM goalkeeper Wardun Yusof kept his team in the game two minutes later when he was forced to dive sharply to his right to save a shot own goal, but he was hardly troubled for the rest of the night.

After a menacing performancethus so far with dangerous runs and precise passes,Md Abu Bakar - nicknamed Eto'o by his teammates - repaid his coach's confidence in playing him by scoring 6 minutes before the final whistle.

Pushing the ball forward on the counter-attack, South Korean forward Oh Ddog Yi received a pass from the right and skillfully created space for a shot.

Though it was boxed out by goalkeeper,Kang,it was poor clearance and the oncoming Abu Bakar easily scored with a simple tap-in from a few yards out.

Doing well to put men behind the ball after that, DPMM rode out their first win of the season with their fans cheering them and hardly allowing the Super Reds the time and space to send in a cross.

The Koreans preferred method of attack was through the flanks, where they created space and sent in crosses, trying to make the most of their height advantage.

However, last season's runners-up were thwarted by the good aerial showing of defender Rene Komar and captain Pg Sallehuddin and hardly threatened  from crosses or during set-poeces.

Pg Sallehuddin's performance was especially recommendable throwing himself at every tackle and one-on-one challengewith the vigour and determination that one would hardly expect from a 35-year old player.

Prior to the match head coach Vjeran Simunic had said that the team's attitude had changed and that was certainly true last night.

"We were hungry to play after that we could not compete in the Malaysian League - it was like we were in a cage," said Simunic yesterday.

"Give us a chance and we will play like this"I know we can do better.

"I am happy about the game, the team's performance and their attitude.

"It was a very offensive game, very openlike how we used to play last year ... Six players on the attack sometimes," added the Croatian.

"I have seen the Super Reds play before and they surprised me tonight because I did not think they were this good.

" I would like to thank the fans for supporting us and I want to tell them they must be proud of us, proud of the local players.We are playing Woodlands Wellington on Sunday and I want to see 10,000 fans here - if not I will go home because I don't like them playing in empty stadiums," added the Croatian with a wink.

The result pushes DPMM from ninth to fourth in the 12-team league with four points from two games. 

DPMM FC are enjoying a boost to confidence  going into today's Singapore League(S-League) home opener against Super Reds at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas at 8..45pm.

Md Abu Bakar Mahari's equaliser with the last kick of their game against the young Lions saw Brunei's premier club earn a 1-1 draw in their debut S-League match and head coach Vjeran Simunic yesterday said that the result had rejuvenated the players.

"I came here to change the players' attitude and I can say that I have done that," said Simunic yesterday.

"After we were not been able in the Malaysian Super League (MSL) because of Brunei Football Federation's (BAFA)deregistration the players were all feeling preety down.

"But then we were able to play in the S-League, one that is more well-known and much better than the Malaysian Super League.

"Because of that, and our draw in our first match,the team's attitude has really changed and they are now charged up," added the head coach. 

"I think we still need another 20-30 days for the players to reach full fitness and play more compact but we are on the right track," said the Croatian coach.

Training at the Hassanl Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas yesterday,so that the players could get get re-accustomed to the field.

The Croatian is determined to make sure their record in the S-League will be better than the M-League.

"I told the players that I want no team to take any points from here," he said emphatically.

"The fans must play their part too, coming to every game and supporting the team,especially the local players.

"I have a lot of respect for the Super Reds,who finished second last season, and I expect a good game," he added.

"They are a very tall team and that can be a disadvantage, but we can use that to our advantage if we play low balls.

" they are also a good team in set-pieces so we will have to watch out for that," he added.

The Super Reds first match was goalless stalemate against the Young Lions on Feb 19 and their second saw them lose 1-0 to Gombak on Feb 24.

Though new DPMM signing Oh Ddog Yi was a Super Reds player last season,it might not not be much help because he only knows 4 players from this year's squad after the club did a total revamp, according to Simunic.

Oh found the back of the net 12 times for the Super Reds last season. 

The head coach of Super Reds, Jeon Kyeong-Joon predicts a tough match against DPMM FC, for tonight's match at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

In an interview with the Media Permata in the Brunei International airport yesterday midday,he mentioned that he watched DPMM's match against the Young Lions last Friday, and due to his observation, DPMM FC is still in the process of getting use to their teamwork as with his team.

On the other hand,he believed that DPMM FC will he one of the teams to be looked upon after playing several S-League games although they are a rookie team in the league.

According to him,Brunei DPMM's participation to the S-League is a good step for the team, to mention that he had played for DPMM FC in the Malaysian 2006/7 Super League.

In addition,with the import players with some new faces,he believed Brunei DPMM will be a team that can excelled in the S-League.

With the S-League is now becoming more competitive and improved from time to time rapidly,he hoped DPMM will not be behind, but improved from ayera to year.

On their first game,the Super Reds drew with  the Young Lion, as well as DPMM drew as well with the Young Lions.

Brunei DPMM as the home team hopes for support by the fans to bring high hopes for the team, and will try to bag full points against the runner-up team in the S-League last season.

Super Reds arrived yesterday midday and went on training at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium last night as their final preparation for their game against DPMM FC. 

DPMM FC head coach,Vjeran Simunic said the high determination on their solely game in their S-League camapaign last Friday proves that the team are serious for this S-League.

"Before this,many sources mainly the media in Singapore sees us as the bottom dwellers.But what we have prove from our debut match,we are able to prove them wrong," said Simunic during interview yesterday.

According to him,we should have bring back full points away from home, after controlling the entire match and alot of chances were wasted in front of goal.

He added, the determination of each individuals are shown,when they stopped the Youg Lions getting full points.

On the first match, Simunic fielded in Md Shahrazen and new Korean import, Oh Ddog Yi upfront before bringing on sper-sub Abu Bakar Mahari in the 15 minutes.

"I hope the players will be able to maintain and improve their reputation for the next match when they will face the runners-up last season,Super Redsthis Wednesday," added Simunic.

Although,Simunic hopes that there will be alot of crowd and fans suporting their team while playing at home.

"The spectators play a major role for the determination of the players.Their support will he highly appreciated.That is very important," said Simunic.

Although the league campaign is stilla long way to go, the Croatian head coach does not want the team to be far from the top standings. 

Ask DPMM head coach Vjeran Simunic what made him field Md Abu Bakar Mahari in Friday's game against Young Lions na dhe will tell you one word - in-tuition.

The diminutive striker scored the goal as the Bruneians held the Singaporeans to a 1-1 draw in their Singapore League debut at the Jalan Besar Stadium in the city state and ran to Simunic straight to celebrate.

Abu Bakar had the chances to find the back of the net prior to his last minute equaliser and his effort earned the admiration of the Croatian coach.

"It was either him or Dodi but in my head, something switched on and told me to put him in.So I decided to introduce him into the game, and when I did, I told him to score for us," said Simunic.

"Around here we have a nickname for Abu and we call him Eto'o, after Samuel Eto'o from Barcelona because he is fast, skilled, courageous and it is not easy for defenders to cover him.

"He aslo scored the team's second goal in our 3-2 loss to Laos during the 2008 Asean Football Federation Qualifying Cup campaign so I know he is quality.

"Everyone thought he was an import and asked me where he was from ... I don't know, we found him in Tutong," laughed Simunic.

The Croatian was impressed with the team's performance and felt they were worthy competitiors in the league.

Dominating possession 60-40 and recording 19 shots on goal to their opponents 10,the Bruneians earned many fans during the match which was telecast live in Singapore.

Simunic added that the draw had boosted the team's confidence and now they had made their name in Singapore.

"We were up against the future Singapore national team, one of the leading countries in Asia," said Simunic.

For the final 10 minutes, we put six players in attack and though, it was risky,it paid off and alot of people said they enjoyed watching us play.

"We promised to fight and run in the last minute the same way we did in the first minute and we showed that on Friday."

The Bruneians will face the Super Reds FC, last season's runners-up, at 8.45 tomorrow at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas. 

Going into the first match of their debut Singapore League(S-League) season against the Young Lions at 7.30pm today, DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic is just as anxious as his players to prove a point.

Faced with uncertainties such as the availability of imports and the synthetic surface at the Jalan Besar Stadium that his players and are not used to playing on, the Croatian knows that his team definitely go into the match as the underdogs.

 Though they may not have enjoyed as much time training and might not be as match-fot as their opponents, the Singapore Under-23 national team,Simunic's men are thankful that at least they have a league to play their football in.

Being their first season, there is no doubt the Brunei side the Brunei side will be out to prove that they are worthy of being in the league.Competing in the last season's Malaysian Super League (MSL), Simunic's predecessor Iordan Stoykov record of two wins, nine draws and six losses in his first and only season in charge speaks for itself.

It came as no surprise that he was sacked with the games left and relegation looming.It is largely due to Simunic's changed tactics and training regiments that the club was in the safe.

Unfortunately, The Football Associationof Brunei Darussalam's(BAFA's) deregistration last December saw the Football Association of Malaysia bar the team from playing in this season's MSL.

But the cloud of disappointment which hung over the team's dressing room turned into pulsating optimism when the S-League, welcomed DPMM FC to its stable of foreign teams - which include Japan's Albirex Niigata and South Korea's Super Reds - on Feb 10, making them the first and only South East Asian team in the fray.

Since they were only informed of the S-League's decision less than 3 weeks before the start of their first match,DPMM were not able to train as much as the other teams  - and it is which Simunic was more than aware of.

"We have not had much training and it is only recently that we resumed out twice a day training sessions,"said Simunic last week. 

"However the players are hugely motivated and I know they will give it their all."

The team had been in Singapore since Wednesday so that the players could familiarize themselves  with the synthetic field, and when contacted yesterday Simunic said the training went well.

Identifying the Young Lions as one of the stronger teams, Simunic has has the utmost respect for them.

And with two of DPMM four imports still not knowing whether they will be eligibale to lace up for the match,Simunic's high opinion of their opponents is more than justified.

"Two of our  imports -Algerian Hamid Berguiga and Croatian Ivan Jerkovic - have not gotten their International Transfer Certificate yet so we are not sure they can play.

"We hope Jerkovic got it tomorrow and we hope to get them by noon," said the head coach yesterday.

"I cannot sure whether we will play 3-5-2 or 4-4-2,but we have been practising with both formations and it will not be difficult to alternate bwtween the two at any givn time.

"A lot depends on who they(Young Lions) field and I will only decide before kick-off."

It looks likely the locals will carry the team tonight and the player who will be expected to deliver on the attack will be the striker Shahrazen Said."

After captivating crowds during the 2006/7 season when he finished joint top-scorer ,the 23-year old Shahrazen only managed to find the back of the net 5 times last season due to ankle injury which came him out for virtually half the campaign.

Midfielder Rosmin Khamis's absence were also severely felt ever since he picked up a season-ending ligament tear in February alongside Sairol Saari.

The trio of players are back to full fitness and the addition of the eve-reliable Rene Komar in defence - who is at his third spell -will also give the team depth which they ere lacking last season. 

DPMM FC left it until late but they finished with a share of points in their debut Singapore League(S-League)match last night, drawing 1-1 against the Young Lions at the Jalan Besar Stadium last night.

The home team, who are the Singapore Under-23 side, got on the score sheet just before the half time break through striker Khairul Nizam after the striker caught the Bruneian backline napping and beat the offside trap to net it from close range.

However,Md Abu Bakar Mahari's 90th minute striker broke the Young Lions's heart and handed them their second straight draw, the first a 0-0 stalemate against the Super Reds last week.

Receiving a cross from the left, the Brunei striker's shot from the right the back of the net and proved the team's spirit in their first competitive match since their defeat to eventual runners-up Woodlands in the first round of the Singapore Cup last May.

DPMM lie ninth in the 12-team table, with Gombak United at the summit with two from as many games.

"It is a good result for our first game in the league and it showed we never give up fighting," said DPMM manager Pg Waslimin in a telephone interview from Singapore.

"We were able to adjust to the synthetic field and I think it was a good showing from us.

"We had a lot of chances but failed to capitalise on them until the last minute," added the team manager.

"Our defenders have to be more focussed since they thought Khairul was offside when he received the ball - which led to the opponents goal.

"Overall I think it was a satisfactory performance though we still have a lot of areas we can improve on," he added.

South Korean midfielder Oh Ddog Yi and Croatian Ivan Jerkovic both received their international transfer certificate in time and they joined Croatian defender Rene Komar as the 3 imports on the field last night.

Algerian hotshot, Abdul Hamid Berguiga was not so lucky, though it is expected that his paperwork will be sorted out before the team's next match. 

DPMM mark their home debut on March 5 against runners-up the Super Reds at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium. 

The situation is still unquestionable whether the Super League side,Brunei DPMM will be able to participate in the upcoming M-League season 2009.

"Although BAFA(Brunei Football Association)is banned,but they are still in FIFA organisation,and we hope a positive response in the RoS," said Pg Matussin,the first Secretary of BAFA. 

DPMM FC team manger,Pg Waslimin also suggest that the situation does not affect on the training ground and the team is highly focussed on the upcoming league.

"We carry out the training as usual and hope DPMM will be able to compete in this prestigious league," he said with high hopes.

He added that the DPMM's registration to represent Brunei DPMM in the Super League have been done and now it is up to FAM.

The team manager also confirmed their 25 selected players including some new faces to the team.

Three Malaysians,midfielder-cum striker from Sabah,Bobby Gonzalez and two defenders,Aziz Ismail and Chan Wing Hoong is also in the list of 25.

Pg Waslimin hopes BAFA could deal with the situation in order for DPMM to participate in the M-League. 

If DPMM FC think that their possible withdrawal from this season's Malaysian's Super League(MSL) is only causing them sleepless nights, they can rest assumed knowing that their fears are shared by Football Association Malaysia(FAM) president Sultan Ahmad Shah.

It was reported that the governing body for football in the country, the Football Association of Brunei Darussalam(BAFA) - along with 54 other youth and sports associations - was suspended in late November for not complying with Registar of Societies (RoS) rules.

BAFA was de-registered by the RoS for failing to submit its annual general meeting report as requested by the RoS.

This means that the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) currently does not recognise BAFA as a member, thus, DPMM FC cannot compete in any FIFA-sanctioned competitions.

"I hope they will be able to resolve their problems as soon as possible as we hope to see them in the league, which kicks off on Jan 3," Sultan Ahmad Shah was quoted as saying in yesterday's edition if the News Strait Times.

The article went on to state  that the FAM secretariat had written to BAFA requesting confirmation and expected a reply by today.

Though BAFA had already launched an appeal to RoS to get reinstated, if it does not give the FAM some reassurances  that the appeal will be successful,nest season's MSL will feature 15 teams 

Team manager,Pg Waslimin who mentioned that the team is already on the peak on their performance reminded that his boys to show consistency in the upcoming seson of the Super League.

DPMM will begin the season at home playing against Johor FC on the 3rd January before going to Perlis three days later.

"All the players have already been given advice on the training sessions every day and it is up to the players to do it on the match day," said Pg Waslimin.

He also saw some signs on the rise of performance of the team with three wins in Singapore including a win against the Singapore Premier League outfit,Geylang  before bringing home a trophy from the Labuan Tournament few days ago.

If the players work as hard with the confidence and put on a good show, DPMM will be able to put up a good performance in this Malaysian top league,he said.

However,Pg Waslimin does not want to rely on the late performance on the last two trips abroad, on the other hand he has been work hard with the coaching staff to strengthen the team in the effort to have another tough friendly against Sarawak as a warm-up match prior to the beginning of the league.

"The players will again be tested in the effort to gain a good match when they play against neighbouring state, Sarawak, that play in the Super League last season but was being relegated this season," added Pg Waslimin.

However,the skipper Rosmin Khamis is also hope for high expectations this season."Although there are no import players this season,we feel that the Super League this season is equal among all the teams because all the teams have their own advantages," he said who has fully recovered from injury.

He was also named as the MVP (Most Valauable Player)in the Labauan Tournament added that high commitment will depend on each team's to be on top. 

Captain Rosmin Khamis of Brunei DPMM scored a dramatic goal from a free-kick to help his team secured a 2-1 win against Pahang to become the champion of the Liberty Labuan Tournament 2008 on Sunday.

In the hard fought game,Yusof Salleh hit a header past Pahang goalkeeper from a corner kick in the 45th minute to take the lead for DPMM.

However,Pahang levelled the score in the second half.The hero for DPMM was capatain Rosmin who scored the winning goal from a free-kick outside the box.

Brunei DPMM won the silverware of the season with a better goal difference in the tournament. 

In a move which must come as a surprise for many, Malaysian national team skipper Md Shukor Adan has snubbed DPMM for Negri Sembilan at the 11th hour.

Though it was reported late October that the midfielder had confirmed his intent to play for DPMM, he had a change of heart two weeks ago and opted to sign for the Deers instead.

The news of Shukor's turnaround means that the Brunei club has failed to lure both of its targets for the next season, Shukor's national team teammate Indera Putera Nahyuddin choosing anther Super League outfit,Kelantan over DPMM last month.

But Shukor's change of heart might not have been that shocking as he had never ever set foot in Brunei or trained with the team.

Representing Malaysia at the Grand Royal Challenge Cup in Myanmar from November 9-15, the ex-Selangor captain was training for the six-team tournament prior to that.

"At first he said he wanted to sign for us, so naturally, I am dissapointed that he had a change of heart," said DPMM team manager Pg Waslimin Momin when contacted yesterday.

"I was told that he changed his mind and decided to sign for Negri because of family reasons and since he will be playing in his home town - so we have to respect that," said Pg Waslimin adding that thr club would continue to look around for other Malaysian players to add depth to the team.

So far the only Malaysians on the team list for next season's MSL campaign are striker Bobby Gonzalez and defender Chan Wing Hoong.

Football Association Malaysia(FAM) ruled in early August to ban all foreign players from its domestic leagues next season in a move aimed at developing local talent, and though DPMM had launched an appeal, Pg Waslimin was under the understanding that it would not be successful.

Though Shukor's change of heart is a big blow for Brunei's premier club, Pg Waslimin will not have much time to ponder about it as the team are in the heat of preparation for the 2008/09 campaign,which kicks off next month.

DPMM are currently in Singapore ,where there are playing a trio of friendlies against Singaporean clubs, today playing against S-League team Geylang FC which will test the team's ability with entirely all locals and Malaysians against a proper Singapore outfit with import players.

They will then return to Brunei before leaving for Labuan to compete in the Invitataional Tournament Cup,a four team tournament which will kick-offnext Friday.

DPMM's first game is against Sabah in the opening game,with the second against the ex-Sabah team the next day and the third against Pahang next Sunday. 

It looks like DPMM FC's effort to reverse the Football Association of Malaysia's (FAM) ban on imports for next season are not working out, with their team manager yesterday revealing that the chances of it happening are now next to impossible.

"We have yet to receive in black and white that our appeal is not successful, but I have heard that it is not going to happen," said Pg Waslimin PSJ Momin during a telephone interview yesterday.

The FAM ruled August to ban all foreign players from its domestic leagues next season in a move aimed at developing local talent, but Brunei's premier club wanted to convince it to make an exception.

According to FAM's head of the Department of Competition Ahmad Fuad Daud, when contacted in mid August,no other team have made such an appeal.

The news will come as no shock to the team's two imports, Guinean striker under-performed Keita Mandjou and Croatian defender Rene Komar- especially for the latter who admitted last month that his chances of playing for the Sultanate's premier club next season were slim.

Meanwhile, Pg Waslimin confirmed that ex-Malaysian international Chan Wing Hoong, who used to ply his trade for Perak, was the club's newest signing.

Arriving in town on Nov 6, the long-serving Perak defender signed on the dotted-line four days later, with his contract officially starting on Nov 1.

"After watching him in action during training, the coach (Vjeran Simunic) felt that signing him would be a good decision," said Pg Waslimin.

"He brings years of experience to the side and the coach was really impressed with him," added the team manager.

Chan made his name playing for Perak where he served for nine season in two spells from 1998-2005 and again from 2007-2008.

He also participated in the 2002 Tiger Cup, 2006 Merdeka Tournament and the 2007 Asean Football Championship.

Another player who had signed for the club was Bobby Gonzalez and Pg Waslimin said that the ex-Sabah striker was fitting in well.

Pg Waslimin added that DPMM's other new player, ex-Selangor captain and current Malaysia national team skipper Mohamad Shukor Adan, would only be making his way to Brunei after the AFF Champions Suzuki Cup.

The Brunei National team didn't want to wait till the end of their qualifying stages of the AFF Suzuki Cup when they are on the verge to reach the final round of the Cup after they are able to gain 4 points after 2 match played.

Although they began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against the favourites Philippines and they are able to rise to the occasion by demolishing Timor Leste 4-1 last Tuesday and move top of the table tied points with Cambodia and the Philippines.

Mohd Shahrazen scored a solitary goal in the first match against the Philippines helped the team by scoring two goals against Timor Leste while Azwan Salleh and Pg Sallehuddin bring cheers to the team with their solitary goals.

Brunei have to win against Laos to gain early promotion to the finals in December so they could relax and have no pressure  playing their final game against Cambodia thinking they are already qualified to the 8-team tournament in December.

"Our chances are very good but the players have to be extra cautious to gain full points aginst Laos ," said the team manger Pg Waslimin.

He said, the performance of the players are very satisfactory when they showed improvement from their last tournament in Indonesia few months ago.

Although,the team manager is quite worried when 6 of their players have got 6 yellow cards and remind of their players to be careful in the coming games.

"We are confident the players will do their best to create history for Brunei football for the first time going to the final round of this prestigious tournament:, he said. 

The tournament being held once in every two years will end on the 25th October,with the top two teams will qualify to the main draw in December alongside Indonesia,Malaysia, Vietnam,Thailand,Myanmar and defending champions,Singapore. 

National striker Shahrazen Said once again proved why he is the country's most deadly player in front of goal after finding the back of the net in Sunday's 1-1 draw against the Philippines during their first match of the 2008 Asean Football Federations's (AFF) Qualifying Cup in Cambodia.

Connecting on a cross from DPMM teammate Md Maududi Kasmi in the 17th minute of their match at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh, Shahrazen's header gave Neil Ethridge in between the Philippines' goalposts no chance at all.

According to a Press release on Aff's website, Shahrazen had a huge impact throughout the game - with his powerful shot on goal forcing Ethridge into a spectacular save inside the first few minutes.

However, the national team were denied a winning start to their campaign after Chad Gould scored with a header of his own five minutes before the break to cap off a period of sustained pressure.

The second half saw both teams upping the tempo, but as the game were on, the Philippines got most of the possession by playing a lot of long balls because of their great physique of their strikers.

But despite their stalemate,national team coach Vjeran Simunic felt that his charges did a good job given the circumstances - stating that the team had not trained for long together and were still gelling.

"It was a 50-50 game which have could gone either way but I am very proud of my players for what they showed today(Sunday)," said Simunic in his post match comments.

Prior to the start of the AFF Qualifying Cup on Friday,Simunic said that he had only been in charge with the team for 2 months and they were not able to play any competitive matches in preparation for the tournament.

However the national team had a day off on the first match day (Friday) and the coach knew that the break would give him the chance to observe the other teams and see how he could use what he learnt to prepare his players.

The Philippines, who did play last Friday,came up with a 1-0 win against Timor Leste.

Friday's other match saw Cambodia beat Laos 3-2 while the second match played last Sunday saw Timor Leste hold hosts Cambodia to a 2-2 draw.

The sultanate's next match is against Timor Leste today. 

With national prode at stake, Brunei Darussalam will be trying to create history by winning one of the top two spots in the qualifying round of the AFF Suzuki Cup in order to advance to the final stage of the championship.

Besides Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, the Philippines and Timor Leste will be vying for the final stage of the tournament.

The top six seeded ASEAN nations namely Indonesia,Myanmar, Malaysia,Singapore,Thailand and Vietnam have already qualified for the final stage of the tournament.

Pg Hj Waslimin, the manager of the Brunei football team said: "We will try to obtain the top two places in the qualifying round to book a spot into the AFF Suzuki Cup in December."

However, he is cautious on facing the Philippines, a nation that is rapidly developing their football talent.

"Philippines are a very good team, they have two players that have trained with Chelsea.Our team will try our best to win the crucial game."

Speaking about the new national team,he said,"Besides Brunei DPMM players, the team also include top players from some of the best teams in the Brunei League.To prepare for the championship, we have been training hard together for the past two months."

Meanwhile, national team coach, Simunic said the team is hungry for a win and with pride of the nation on their shoulders, the local boys are happy to be able to represent Brunei Darussalam.

On the Philippines he said,"We will take each game at a timeand according to my information,Philippines are a strong team.Maybe we can conjure up something.I hope we can win our first game to carry on the momentum into the next game."

To boost the team spirit, an national flay handing-over ceremony was held yesterday at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Pg Hj Metussin,the Secretary General of BAFA said BAFA through the national team committee has mandated the management of DPMM to prepare and manage the national team to participate in the Indonesian Independence Cup last August.

Since the tournament, the national squad has been strengthenedby introducing a number of players that could put up a very good challenge in the qualifying round of the AFF Suzuki Cup.

Pg Hj Md Yusof bin Bahar, the Vice-President of BAFA handed over the national flag to DPMM team manager Pg Hj Waslimin at the ceremony. 

DPMM FC head coach Vjeran Simunic yesterday said his team were not 100 percent prepared for next week's Asean Football Federation's (AFF) Qualifying Cup in Cambodia, where they are set to represent the country.

Without a single competitive match since August,2008 Pertamina Independence Cup in Indonesia, Brunei's premier club has not been going through its normal twice a day training sessions because of the fasting month and HariRaya.

But the October 17-25 competition in which 5 countries- Brunei,Cambodia,Laos, the Philippines and Timor Leste - will compete in a round-robin tournament for two remaining slots in December's AFF Cup will not give Simunic's men much time to think about what could have been.

With a game every other day starting on Oct 19 against the Philippines followed by Timor Leste, Laos and hosts Cambodia, Simunic knows that he has his work out cut for him.

"For us, the fact that we have not been playing against top-level opposition has also been a problem," said Simunic when met at the Jerudong Mini Stadium during the team's training session yesterday.

"The team that I have now have been together for the past month and our friendly games against local clubs are always comfortable wins for us.But that does not mean we are a strong team.

"We have some experience playing in the 2008 Pertamina Independence Cup in indonesia, though we did not perform well in the tournament," he added.

Representing the sultanate at the tournament in August, they lost 2-0 to the Indonesian Under-23 in their first match and fell 1-5 to Libya in their second game.

Identifying Laos and Cambodia as the team's to beat during the AFF Qualifying Cup, Simunic said that the team's twice a day training sessions which resumed this week would be crucial in deciding whether they would be one of the two countries to join co hosts Thailand and Indonesia as well as defending champions Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Myanmar in the tournament proper from Dec 5-28.

"If it was not for the fasting month we could have prepared better," said the Croatian "but I cannot change anything."

"We took a week long break during Hari Raya and for the past month or so, our training has not been sufficient.That is why the twice a day training sessions we are undergoing until we leave for Cambodia will be important," he added.

During the fasting month, the team trained sloely at night

However one of the many things which distinguishes Simunic from his predecessor Iordan Stoykov has been his emphasis on fitness  -  explaining the twice a day training sessions which many of the players balked at first.

Players such as striker Shahrazen Hj Md Said, defender Pg Sallehuddin  Pg Damit and winger Sairol Sahri are once again expected to be key figures in the team when they take to the pitch in Cambodia.

Though the latter was currently injured and only able to carry out light training, Simunic said that he hoped the player would regain his fitness before next Wednesday, when they are scheduled to leave for the tournament. 

The controversial decision by the Football Association of Malaysia(FAM) banning foreign players from the Malaysian League next season will change the football landscape. 

So what can the football fans expect next season.Can the local players fill the vacuum left by the foreign players or imports in the goal scoring department?

Will main contenders Kedah,Perak and Selangor which had been dependant on imports for goals maintain the same level of standard now that they will not be around.

The contribution of the imports had been enormous and the records speak for itself.The top four strikers in the Super League were imports.

Golden boot winner Marlon James of Kedah led the charts with 23 goals followed by Carlos Caceres of Perak(17),Frank Seator of Selangor(15) and Walter Ariel of Johor FC(14)

 Malaysia's best player was Md Khalid Jamlus of Perak with 13 goals who came fifth.

It was the same story for the Premier League(2nd division)where the imports showed they were a cut above the locals. 

Mouhamodou Moustapha of Kelantan led with 27 goals followed by Otelo Ocompos of Johor Pasir Gudang(23) and Alex Agbo of KL Plus(19)

Kedah's James also dominated the FA Cup and the Malaysia Cup competitions scoring 10 and 15 goals respectively.Imports made their presence felt in Malaysia with the introduction of the Semi-Pro league in 1989.

Except for 2004, when Indera Putera Mahyuddin of Pahang won the Golden Boot with 15 goals, the imports never failed to lead the goalscoring chart.

FAM local competitions committee chairman Datuk Che Mat Jusoh said the decision to ban imports was for the development of Malaysian football as local players found it hard to shine against the imports.

"Without the imports next season, the fans can really evaluate the standard of Malaysian footballers,"he told Bernama.Che Mat said teams which put up fine displays will draw fans to fill the stadiums and this will augur well for the future of Malaysian football.

He said that the imports' presence was of little help to Malaysian football as some lacked quality and caused a drain on the team' resources.

"Some of those plying trade in malaysia are past their best and cannot make it to the majot football leagues in europe," said the FAM vice president.

Other than ban on imports, the last season also show FAM bogged with match fixing allegations by players and the failure of several football associations to pay players' wages and contribute to the Employees Provident Fund(EPF).

DPMM FC 'rock' in defence is back and Rene Komar is determined to make sure that his second spell at the club will help turn their fortunes around.

Joining the team in April,2005 the Croatian was part of the club's rise from the Brunei League in the 2004/2005 season to the Malaysian Premier League in the 2005/2006 season and then on to the Malaysian Super League in the 2006/2007 season where they finished the campaign third.

But since Komar was released last October before the start of the 2007/2008 season,neither of his replacements Abd Hakeem Al-Bahloul and Christian Kono have ben able to provide the consistency, reliability and the quality which made the Croatian a firm fan favourite.

"It feels very good to be back because I have a lot of good memories with the club," said Komar.

"After I was released I went back to Croatia and rejoined my old team NK Pamorac who compete in the second division in Croatia, but because of problems in obtaining my international transfer certificate(ITC),which cam two months later than expected,I could not play for them as the season had already started."

"DPMM contacted me in March and asked whether I would like to re-join the club and they said their season was not going on well and they had several injuries to key players," said Komar, who was honoured with the DPMM "Player of the Year" award two seasons ago.

After their third place finish in their inaugural season, the team's second in the top-flight of the Malaysian football was not successful as they finished a dismal 10th in the 13-team league after being mired in a relegation battle for almost  half of the season.

The release of Komar and ex-head coach Buketa Ranko who had guided the club from the Brunei League to the MSL before the season started could be seen as reasons why the club has failed to live up to its promise, though injuries such as captain Rosmin Khamis, striker Shahrazen Said and leftbacl Sairol Saari also contributed to its poor finish.

"After arriving here and looking at last season's games on video,I notice that the players did not seem as confident as before," said Komar when asked what changes he had noticed since he returned.

"Sometimes they did not enter the field looking like they know they were capable of beating their opponents and I think the bad results at the start might had a negative effect on the team"

"But we can easily change the mentality ... all we need to do is win a couple of games to get the confidence back," added Komar.

The Croatian defender played his "first" game for DPMM during their 1-0 loss to Woodlands Wellington in the 1st round of the RSB Singapore Cup on May 9,which also marked the debut of former Perak Liberian striker Keita Mandjou.

With Kono and compatriot Belibi and Pierre Olivier Bakalag all released by the club, their departure means that the team still have space for one more import player most likely a midfielder.

The 2008/09 season is set to kick off on Nov 1.

Although the Malaysian Super League is already come to a close, DPMM FC will begin their RSB Singapore Cup campaign against Woodlands Wellington FC in the first round.

 "I am quite happy with the situation of the team right now.We have got the confidence within the team after gaining a sweet victory against Perak as a model in the upcoming Singapore Cup," said the head coach Vjeran Simunic during the training session at the Mini Stadium yesterday afternoon.

As for further satisfation for Simunic is his ability to change the mentality of the players and being able to change the style of his team's performance in the small space of time.

According to him, the players are eager in training now to give a good match against Woodlands this Friday.

"After bringing back the confidence of the team,now I am aiming to bring victory for the team.Im hoping to get moral support and assistance from all aspects to get the ambition," he said.

For the RSB trophy, DPMM will be strengthen with the services of Guinean striker,Keita Mandjou and will welcome back the services of defender,Rene Komar.

"If I am fielded,this will be my debut with DPMM.I am confident, with the potential of the team,I am hoping to give my best for the team," said Mandjou.

According to him,teamwork within the team are the major factor in forming a good team and he had seen the DPMM players are in the right path.

DPMM have left for Singapore this morning(7th May) 

Notching up only their fourth win of the MLS campaign last night,DPMM's 2-1 win over Perak at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium which saw them move up on one notch to 10th means the club will continue to play their football in the top flight next season.

Christian Kono made sure the team won't be losing any sleep over the issue after the Cameroonian grabbed the winner in the last game of the season with an effort from outside the box in the 75th minute.

Striker,Shahrazen Said gifted the home side the lead in the 14th minute after taking advantage of a slip-up in the Perak defence to blast the ball home, thought their lead was short-lived as Carlos Caceres levelled the scores from the penalty spot in the 24th minute.

For DPMM head coach,Vjeran Simunic,it was mission accomplished after taking over the ailing team in mid-March and guiding them through a string of results which ensured them of a third straight season in the MSL.

"This is the close of an era which began when I started working with the team," said Simunic, "and I achieved my target of avoiding relegation"

Pouncing on a poor clearance by a Perak defender,Shahrazen volleyed the ball past keeper Md Nasril Nourdin  who could do nothing to stop the shot- though it was at his near post.

But the visitors were back on level terms after Caceres bagged his 17th goal of the season when he sent goalkeeper Md Wardun the wrong way to score with a low shot to the left during a penalty kick.

The penalty was given after Kono judged to have tugged a Perak player's shirt, a dubious decision which was met with great ire from the DPMM bench.

Still in control of the match,DPMM continued to create attacking opportunities down both flanks and pinned the visitors into theor own ha;f until the halftime whistle.

With Cameroonian Didier Belibi doing a superb job playing in the usual position of a defensive midfielder, his aerial ability and and ball winning skills starved Perak off the ball - though he would have been a greater threat had his ball distribution was on the same level as his other attributes.

Though Perak gained some momentum at the start of the second half, they were unable to convert their meagre chances and were made to pay 15 minutes from time.