A victory lap to cherish forever

Santokh Singh said that running the victory lap after beating South Korea was one of the highlights of his career.

THERE are many things money cannot buy in the world of sports today.

And for the man of steel in defence Datuk Santokh Singh, the “amazing” moment of his football career was the victory lap at the Merdeka Stadium after they beat South Korea 2-1 to qualify for the 1980 Moscow Olympics.

“It was a rare moment in my life, a different feeling altogether.

“The whole nation was proud of our success to win the ticket to the Olympics.

“I do not have these photographs (celebration) with me but I will always treasure these wonderful moments in my heart.

“We were a well-balanced team.

“And every time we go down memory lane talking about it, this awesome feelings comes to my mind. We celebrated one of Malaysia’s greatest moments in football history.”

Santokh also had success when Malaysia last picked up the bronze medal at the 1974 Asian Games in Teheran.

He also won back-to-back SEA Games gold medals in 1977 (Kuala Lumpur) and 1979 (Jakarta).

Santokh now helps out coaching children (Under-14) at the Royal Selangor Club (RSG) on weekends.

PROFILE

SANTOKH SINGH

Age: 63

Date of birth: June 22, 1952

Place of birth: Setapak

State: Selangor 1972-85

National: 1972-80