Dark horse Stallions have what it takes

29/09/1998

THE new kids in the Malaysian Basketball League (MBL), the Penang
Stallions, don't just want to make up the numbers but look to make an
impact in their very first season.
They are a fresh side but have a good number of cagers with experience.
Tan Kia Heng is an old hand from the Sarawak Hornbills, Mah Poh Chian
has seen action in the King's Cup while Teoh Shi Hoe and Chee Sheng Kai
rose from the junior ranks and have represented Malaysia in the Asian
Under-21 Championship.
Add imports Billy Fikes and Matt Houle to the list and you have a well-
balanced team.
A good side but team owner Ooi Khoon Yeong has decided to adopt a wait-
and-see attitude.
"The players have been training hard at the new Han Chiang Stadium and
they look good," said Ooi.
"But their first match is against defending champions Johor Tigers at
the Segamat Indoor Stadium tomorrow and it will be a good yardstick."
Swingman Houle stands at 210cm while Fikes was an all star in Australia.
"This is a kind of vacation-cum-keep fit session for Houle and myself
because it is the offseason in Australia right now. But that does not mean
we will be taking it easy," said Fikes.
"Some of the guys who have played in the MBL told me that it is a
competitive league and keeps you on the run most of the time. I like that
kind of action and will give it my best shot."
Fikes and Houle were selected by player co-ordinator Brian Lester.
"I only select the best for MBL, so be rest assured that Fikes and Houle
will give 100 per cent. If they win the title in their debut, it will be a
bonus," said Lester.
With a combination of old guards and new hands, plus a formidable
foreign duo, dark horses Penang Stallions might just pull off a few
upsets.
FACTFILE - Team owner: Ooi Khoon Yeong; Manager: Dr Teng Tjoon Tow;
Coach: Fong Kheng Chong; Local players: Lee Kheng Tian, Tan Kia Heng, Tam
Kai Weng, Mah Poh Chuan, Oh Kok Chiat, Teoh Shi Hoe, Chee Sheng Kai, Koh
Ghee Wei; Foreign signings: Billy Fikes, Matt Houle.
(END)