Goalkeeper Izwan now a game-changer

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There were furrowed brows aplenty when Singapore goalkeeper Lionel Lewis lay in a crumpled heap on the Bishan Stadium green on July 7.

With Hassan Sunny already out with a knee injury, and a crunch World Cup qualifier against Malaysia beckoning, Lewis' injury suggested a goalkeeping crisis for Singapore.

At the time, few had heard of Izwan Mahbud (picture). Now, after he stepped in to become a giant in the double-header with Malaysia, which the Lions won 6-4, he is fast turning into a household name in Singapore.

This evening, the 21-year-old will play in his first SEA Games for the Republic against Malaysia, again. He will be one of those expected to shine, a star in the side charged with qualifying out of a daunting group that also features Thailand and Indonesia. "Everybody is treated equally in the team, and no, I don't feel like a star, I'm still the same old Izwan," the soft-spoken footballer insisted yesterday.

"This is my first Games, and yes, it is one of the biggest games, but we're treating every opponent the same, because in this group, every point, every game is important."

Critics predict an early exit for Singapore's youngsters, but Izwan remains unfazed.

"My personal target is to keep as many clean sheets as I can," he said.

Ahead of a game that will determine the Young Lions' entire campaign, there is a belief within the camp.

Said Izwan: "One thing's for sure, we are not afraid." Shamir Osman