SINGAPORE - The Singapore Die-Hards fan group, led by veteran tour operator Akbar Hashim, will be celebrating the LionsXII's Malaysian Super League (MSL) win with their heroes in style this Sunday.
They will come decked in their customised "Champions" T-shirts for the victory dinner organised by The New Paper and Gayatri Restaurant.
"We have waited for this moment for 19 long years," declared Akbar.
"In the past, there will always be such functions organised to celebrate a successful season and the fans look forward to meeting the players.
"It's good to see the support coming back and it'll be a meaningful day for the fans and players."
The dinner will be held at Gayatri's Orchid Country Club outlet and the LionsXII will be bringing along the MSL trophy for fans to take photographs with.
At the event, TNP will also be handing out several awards, including the TNP Player of the Season.
Fans have also been asked to name their favourite player on TNP's Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/thenewpaper).
The current leader is skipper Shahril Ishak.
Fans who turn up will also be doing their bit for charity as a major portion of the proceeds will be channelled to Project Helping Hands.
Adopted by TNP, the charity benefits senior citizens who live alone by installing motion sensors in their homes.
Tickets for the dinner are priced at $100 each for adults and $50 each for fans aged 12 and under.
Each adult fan will also receive one free ticket to TNP's 25th anniversary party - Mardi Gras at The Courtyard at Robertson Walk on July 26 - which comes with more than $130 worth of goodies, including vouchers for Harley Davidson, House of Seafood and T.M.Lewin.
They will also get two LionsXII posters created by TNP's award-winning art and photo desks.
Mohd Taib, a 61-year-old businessman has bought four tickets for his family, including 12-year-old daughter Nur Fateha and eight-year-old Mohd Fadli.
He said: "We have been following the LionsXII regularly and it will be a good opportunity for my kids to meet their heroes, and at the same time do some good for charity."
Seats for the dinner are still available.
Fans who would like to make reservations can contact Gayatri at 62924544.
LionsXII Celebration Dinner
Where: Gayatri Restaurant (Orchid Country Club outlet)
When: This Sunday, 6.30pm
Price: $100 (adults), $50 (under 12)
Fans who would like to make reservations can contact Gayatri at 62924544.
davidlee@sph.com.sg