FROM CAMBODIA WITH LOVE
Vathanaka’s impressive performance attracts in hometown support
PKNS have become popular in Cambodia after signing their star forward Chan Vathanaka for the M-League. The 25-year-old, who had an unsuccessful stint with Pahang last season, has not only been impressive in matches but has also attracted his fans from Cambodia to support the Red Ants.
Prior to Vathanaka’s signing, PKNS’ Facebook page had only attracted local fans, but things have changed since his arrival.
A recent article on Vathanaka scoring his first Super League goal for PKNS against Selangor on Feb 16 on their Facebook page had 400 shares and 250 comments mostly from Cambodian fans.
A photo of Vathanaka posted together with the full-time score of PKNS’ 4-0 win over Selangor recorded 560 shares and 400 comments.
Team manager Mahfizul Rusydin Abd Rashid said the interest shown by Cambodian fans proves that the M-league is gaining momentum outside the country.
“It is great news for our small club. We hope this will continue.
“We normally consult the Malaysia Football League (MFL) in trying to improve in all aspects of managing our club.
“We also have our own marketing and management initiatives to make our club better on all fronts,” said Mahfizul yesterday.
For the record, MFL introduced the Southeast Asian import quota last year in the efforts to further expand the M-League’s appeal to fans outside the country.