Amok at Stadium Shah Alam: Ultras Malaya supporters give their side of the story

Shah Alam Stadium resembled a war zone last night when burning flares and firecrackers were thrown onto the field, as Malaysia trailed 1-2 behind Saudi Arabia, with three minutes left in their 2018 World Cup qualifying match.

The actions of a group of hardcore football fans were quickly labeled as shameful, tarnishing the country's good name, but for this group of supporters known as Ultras Malaya, it was their last resort.

Basically last night's big debate. #MASvsKSA pic.twitter.com/r21R6A30X9
— Seng Foo (@sengfoo88) September 9, 2015

Theres still many way to telling the world the truth but you guys choose a wrong way. Now the world start to judge our country #MASvsKSA
— DOS (@Daus_Awesome) September 8, 2015

There u go...now whole world can see..! #MASvsKSA #Memalukan
— Faidzal Alang (@faidzal_alang) September 8, 2015

While many criticised their violent actions, others observed this as an effective method of amplifying the voice of supporters of local football, to those in charge of the sport here in Malaysia.

Ultras Malaya 1

Ultras Malaya 2

Harimau Malaya 3
Some postings on Facebook.

Standing ovation to Ultras Malaya! FAM mohon turun! #MASvsKSA
— donati (@OhhAneeq) September 8, 2015

If throwing flares is embrassing, does corrupted football is normal for you? Tell me where's your dignity? #RIPHarimauMalaya #MASvsKSA
— Shahril (@shahrilrozali) September 8, 2015

@501Awani sapa yg harus bertanggungjawab kekalahan malaysia sampai 10-0..dan x pnh2 nk mningkat...?cakap sat.. #MASvsKSA
— fizi ahmad (@mohdhafiziahmad) September 9, 2015

"You need to understand. I punched you not because I wanted to. I punched you to send a message to your guardian." #MASvsKSA
— Seng Foo (@sengfoo88) September 8, 2015

Some of these netizens even questioned the relevance of 'using the right channel' to voice one's opinion, reasoning that fans did use the right channel to voice their case, but to no avail.

Last night's game was suspended at the 88th minute, with Saudi Arabia leading Malaysia 2-1. The final result will be discussed by FIFA with a decision expected in the coming days.

Based on the current schedule, Malaysia's next match in the Group A Asian qualifiers will be away against Timor Leste on October 13.