PETALING JAYA: There was trouble on the sidelines at the Selayang Stadium on Saturday after Fadi Awad from Police was left unhappy with the actions of Sabah head coach Jean Paul de Marigny.
The Jordanian midfielder Awad claimed Marigny disrespected him by hurling racist remarks after Police lost 1-4 on home ground in the Super League.
Sabah pulled off their second win of the season with goals coming from Darren Lok, Miguel Cifuentes, Ajdin Mujagic, and Fergus Tierney, while Police’s Agbre Noel scored a consolation penalty for the home team.
Awad was disappointed with what happened off the field.
“Every time we play against Sabah, whether home or away, there’s always mutual respect between the teams,” said Awad on social media.
“But today (Saturday) their head coach disrespected me in front of everyone, using inappropriate language that doesn’t reflect the values of Sabah.
“I truly hope he understands that Sabah are bigger than any individual, and that the club have earned the respect of many, including myself.
The club’s social media page had also shared Awad’s post, but there has been no word from Marigny on the incident.
Meanwhile, another sideline incident had also occurred at the Hang Jebat Stadium after Melaka enjoyed their first win of the season with a 2-0 win over Negri Sembilan on Saturday.
After the match, head coach Nidzam Jamil was conversing with several Negri fans who were in the stands, which eventually broke into an argument.
Nidzam said he was comfortable talking about the team’s performance, but someone had spoken negatively about Nidzam’s family.
“I can accept criticism, but abusive words and cursing towards my family and parents is too much,” said Nidzam.
“Professionally, I am a coach, but I am also a husband, father, and a son. Don’t normalise cursing in front of children because they will follow those negative behaviours.
“I am open to thoughts and criticisms, but curses towards my family and parents have to stop.”
