Solid support: Fergus Tierney (second from left) posing with his family.
PETALING JAYA: The Tierney family is beaming with pride as their son, Fergus, dons the Harimau Malaya jersey.
His first international goal, scored after just three caps, came during Malaysia’s 2-2 draw with Cambodia in the AFF Cup’s opening match at the Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium on Sunday.
Martin Tierney, a former professional footballer who played for teams like Police and Penang, expressed his joy but also emphasized that Fergus is still in the developmental stages of his career.
“Fergus is our pride, and we’re all proud of him. But let’s not forget, he’s still young and learning,” said Martin, who runs a football academy in Penang.
“We’ve been with him every step of the way – from coaching him at Soccer Experience Football Club from age four to his time at JDT (Johor Darul Ta’zim) since he was 18.”
Martin shared hopes for Fergus to grow into a JDT star, perhaps following in the footsteps of players like Bergson Da Silva or Fernando Forestieri.
“We’re thrilled he’s representing Malaysia. He loves playing for his country, and we love supporting him.”
Fergus’ journey hasn’t been without challenges.
His loan to Thai League Two’s Chonburi was cut short after 13 games and one goal, because he chose to focus on the AFF Cup.
“His main goal is to represent Malaysia in the AFF Cup. Everything else is secondary,” said Martin.
As a JDT player, Martin expressed deep gratitude for the club’s role in Fergus’ development. He also praised JDT owner Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (TMJ) for his contributions to Malaysian football.
“TMJ has transformed Malaysian football over the past decade, and we’re fortunate Fergus is part of that journey. The future is bright for young players because of the foundation he’s laying,” he said.
Reflecting on his own 30-year journey in Malaysia, Martin added, “I never imagined such progress in Malaysian football. We should all be thankful for what TMJ is doing.
“Fergus and his teammates are carrying that legacy forward.”
