Project 2013 draw Spain, seniors beat Pakistan

THE Malaysian hockey team beat Pakistan 3-0 in a Four- Nation in Dalian, China, yesterday to take a step closer to play in in the final.
The national team had on Wednesday beaten Russia 3-2 and will play China in their last pool match on Saturday.
Amin Rahim gave Malaysia the lead with a 19th minute penalty corner while the other goals came from Hafifi Hafiz (61st) and Azlan Misron (64th).
Coach Stephen van Huizen said the team is doing reasonably well, considering that he injected six new players after the Azlan Shah Cup.
“I have been fielding all the juniors to give them maximum exposure and they have done well so far. The first test will come when we play in the New Delhi Commonwealth Games but not too much should be read into it.
“Our target is to be be ready for the Asian Games in China, and that is why I am still experimenting with some young players,” said Van Huizen.
The three Junior World Cup players in Dalian are goal keeper Abdul Hakim Adnan, defender Herman Pawi and forward Azzami Adabi.
Meanwhile, in a playing-cum-training Tour Barcelona, the Project 2013 players held Spain Under-21 2-2.
Team manager Mirnawan Nawawi said: “The first half was an even contest with the Spain winning one penalty corner but failed to score.
“However, in the second half Malaysia took the lead off Mohamed Sabri in the 39th minute, but Spain drew level in the 50th minute.
“Firhan Ashaari scored with reverse stick attempt in the 64th minute to regain the lead but Spain managed to score the equaliser again but going by our clock, it was in the 75th minute,” said Mirnawan.
Spain fielded six Junior World Cup players, and according to Mirnawan, it was a morale boosting draw ahead of a re- match today.