Be Fighters and stay – MFL hope Felda reconsider decision

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Football League (MFL) are still hopeful Felda United will remain in the M-League.

The plantation giants announced last Tuesday their decision to pull the team out next season following a decision by their board of directors.

The club side, who have competed in the M-League for 13 years, were Premier League champions in 2010 and 2018 as well as 2014 FA Cup runners-up. They were Malaysia Cup semi-finalists four times since they were established in 2007.

This season, the Fighters are placed 11th in the 12-team Super League with seven points with one match remaining.

MFL chief executive officer Datuk Abdul Ghani Hassan said they have not received an official letter on their intention.

“I really hope their management will reconsider their decision,” said Abdul Ghani yesterday.

“The Super League will only end on Saturday and Felda still have a chance to escape relegation.

“They have been a mainstay in the M-League for 13 years and it will be a huge loss if they decide to close shop. They also have to think that if in the future they want to return to the game, they will have to start from the bottom of our football structure.”

Felda’s pullout also raises question about the M-League composition next season especially in the Premier League if Felda are relegated on Saturday.

The MFL have scrapped relegation from the Premier League this season as the third division, the M3 League, has been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Abdul Ghani said the MFL will have their board meeting soon to decide on several matters including the M-League teams for next season.