Football was introduced by the colonial British back in the 19th century. It's simplicity yet ironic unpredictability  soon turned it into the most popular sport on the island. Hardly surprising as this is the case everywhere except in the North America. 

Local Leagues were formed, while once the exclusive playground of the British presence, very soon locals were admitted too. The Leagues were highly popular and drew crowd by the thousands. 

Evolution of the Malaysia Cup 

The decades after 1930s marked the the start of the golden era in Singapore soccer. The Malaysian Cup competition was formed and the island being one of the state at that time were admitted. Singapore was always one of the strongest team. A total of 24 Championships were won. The Malaysian was immensely popular with the population, 50,000 fans were common in home games. 

1965: Singapore Independence 

In 1965 political dispute erupted in the Malaysian Peninsular. Malaysian leaders wanted Malaysia to be ruled by Malays, Singapore leaders wanted Malaysia to be ruled by Malaysian irregardless of race, language or religion. Yes, you guessed it, Singapore leaders were not malays.  

This lead to a political spilt, and Singapore were Kicked out of the Malaysian federation and left it to fend on its own as an independence nation.  

Sports were left out of politics and Singapore continues to participate in the Malaysia Cup as an 'invited guest'.  

The International playground 

Singapore never qualified for any major competitions, let alone win anything. However in South East Asia, Singapore is often a respected team. Singapore won three silver medals and three bronzes in the 1980s and 90s.   

Recent years were unfortunately becoming depressing, the national team failure is driving fans away to other sports. Some stupid  like floorball.  
 

1994: Out of the M-League 

Relationship with the Malaysian was always touchy. In 1994 after sweeping the League and Cup double, the Malaysian started to make irrational demands. First they demand a 50% cut of the gate, then they insisted that Singapore players were indulged in match fixing. 

Singapore were forced out of the competition. It was a well known secret that the Malaysian were generally jealous of Singapore success, and this factor more than anything else lead to the severance of a 65 years tie. Of course Singapore and Malaysia were becoming more different in culture, ideology and attitudes. 

Long and short of it, A 65 years tie was severed. Singapore was shocked and was left to fend on its own again. A Deja Vu of 1965. 

1995: The Year of Depression 

1995 was a bitter year for Singapore. Out of the Malaysian League, the National team ended up playing in the mickey mouse local league against amateur opposition and sparse crowds. Shocking adjustment indeed for the national players who are used to the adulation of the Malaysian League. Some contemplated quitting, others in particular then National Team Captain Fandi Ahmad questioned the wisdom of not giving in to the Malaysian demand. 

National Pride must not be compromised. 

1996: Birth of S-League 

The idea of a truly Singapore Professional League was mooted years ago but was not explored due to the M-League commitment. Now Singapore has no choice. 

The League was formed with eight teams in 1996, and has been gaining strength to strength since then. In 1999, there will be 12 competing teams and legalized betting. Singapore Soccer has come a long way but there is still a long journey ahead. 

For more news on the Singapore Soccer scene, keep  a lookout for Football Singapore Ezine. We will keep you up to date.