Thursday, September 12, 2013

Women shoot for the stars..

THE Malaysian women’s hockey team for the Asia Cup will  attempt to scale new heights, as a fourth-placed target has  been set for them.
    The tournament, which is also a World Cup Qualifier, will  be held at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil from  Sept 21-27.
    Malaysia are Group A with defending champions China,  India, and Hong Kong while South Korea, Japan, Kazakhstan  and Taiwan are placed in Group B.
    “We need to beat India and Hong Kong to play in the semi- finals, and take matters from there,” said women’s coach  Nasihin Nubli.
    The 18-strong squad, with an average age of 24, will also  see 18-year-old Fatin Shafika playing in her third big tournament after featuring in the World Hockey League Round  One and Round Two.
    The other notable youngster is 20-year-old Nor Azlin  Sumantri.
    Malaysia will open accounts against China on Sept 21,  followed by Hong Kong the next day and their last group  match is against India on Sept 24.
    The women’s junior and senior side received an attire  boost to the tune of RM200,000 from GS Gill.
   “This is the 11th year of sponsorship from GS Gill and we  are grateful to the undying support,” said Nasihin.
    MALAYSIA -- Goalkeepers: Farah Ayuni Yahya, Siti Noor  Hafiza.
   Defenders: Julaini Din, Siti Shahidah Saad, Raja Noor Sharina, Nuraini Rashid, Norhashikin Halim, Siti Nor Ama rina.
   Midfielders: Nadia Rahman, Rabiatul Adawiyah, Noor  Hasliza Ali, Fatin Shakira, Nor Izaidah Ibrahim.
   Forwards: Norbaini Hashim, Siti Rahmah Othman, Fazilla  Sylvester Silin, Nurul Nabihan Mansor, Nor Azlin Sumantri.