Monday, 3 May 2010 12:47 PM
South Melbourne FC was one of four foreign clubs to be included in the draw for this year’s RHB Singapore Cup along with the 12 Singapore League teams.
The Draw was the main feature of a glittering ceremony which took place at 2pm Saturday May 1 (Singapore time) to launch this year’s Cup. SMFC was drawn against leading Singapore club, Gombak United, currently lying fourth on their league table. The date for the first round match has not yet been announced but is likely to be on May 26 or 27. If South gets through, it will play in the quarter finals in late September. The semi finals are scheduled for late October and the final for November 14.
The Football Association Singapore General Secretary, Winston Lee, said “we are delighted to welcome South Melbourne FC into the RHB Singapore Cup. They are one of the most successful teams in Australian football with a long and illustrious history. Their participation will add to the excitement and anticipation of football fans here in Singapore as well in Melbourne”.
South Melbourne FC Chairman, Nick Galatas, told Singapore media that “South Melbourne FC is excited to be a part of this year’s RHB Singapore Cup. It is a fantastic tournament with a growing reputation which includes some of the top clubs in the region. We look forward to our first match against Gombak United”.
Daniel Malacchini, based in Singapore and currently a Commercial Development Officer with the Club, represented the club at the Draw ceremony. Daniel was interviewed by Singapore TV and numerous members of the press signifying the intense interest in South’s participation by Singapore football fans.
Earlier South had secured the consent of Football Federation Victoria and Football Federation Australia to be Australia’s representative at the Singapore Cup. FFA wished both the FAS and SMFC all the best for a successful tournament.
The other three foreign teams taking part this year are:
- Kitchee SC, who are one of the oldest and leading club sides in Hong Kong
- Bangkok Glass FC, which are one of the top clubs in Thailand, and among the title favourites in the Thai Premier League
- Phnom Penh Crown FC, which is one of the strongest clubs in Cambodia
The club will be making further announcements shortly about travel plans and tour packages available for its Singapore campaign. It will be looking for as much support as it can from its fans as it again seeks to proudly represent Australian football overseas.
For any queries please contact Nick Galatas on +61 3 9645 9797 or media@smfc.com.au.