Disparity between M-League teams is alarming, says football critic

KUALA LUMPUR - The massive score differentials in Malaysian football's M-League have sparked concern among critics. JDT and Kuching City's 15-goal performance against struggling opponents highlights the widening gap between top-tier clubs and struggling sides. Football pundit Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli described the defeats as detrimental to Malaysian football's competitiveness.

Pekan argued that clubs must strive to raise their standards and strengthen their squads before entering the elite league. He expressed disbelief at some clubs' apparent lack of awareness regarding their competitive levels. While acknowledging JDT's formidable strength, Pekan emphasized that all M-League teams must avoid playing to lose in top flight football.

He questioned the Malaysian Football League's (MFL) decision-making process, including import quotas and player registration limits, after allowing clubs with FIFA transfer bans to compete. Pekan urged the MFL to implement stricter checks and balances to prevent similar issues in the future.