THE Senior hockey players can't take this year's Razak Cup lightly, as coach Stephen van Huizen will use it to select his team for the Japan Tour on June 8-15.
And those who played in the recent Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, where Malaysia finished fourth, can't take their place for granted.
Van Huizen will also have to scout for two replacements as
he is set to miss to players form the Azlan Shah Cup -- skipper Razie Rahim and midfielder Nabil Fiqri -- who will be reporting for a nine-month Police training from May 8.
"The national players are on leave now and will resume training on May 3 and after 10 days, they will be released to play for their states in the Razak Cup (May 21-29).
"I will select players for the Japan Tour, of six matches including two Tests, based on performance in the Razak Cup. Those who played in the Azlan Shah Cup must also give their best, as there is no 'reserved' spot for anybody," said Van Huizen.
Malaysia had a good chance of grabbing the bronze medal, but after taking a 2-0 lead against New Zealand they crumbled to a 3-3 draw and in the shoot-out lost 5-4.
"We are still at phase one of our training and preparing for the World League Round Two, so I need to keep all the players on their toes.
"We will play six matches in Japan, and two will be Test matches so I will only take those who give their best in the Razak Cup," said van Huizen.
The only international tournament for the senior men this year is the Asian Champions Trophy which Malaysia might host in October, as negotiations are still ongoing with the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) on sanction fees.
The women will also head for Japan on May 1 for a 10-day Tour against the Japan juniors to prepare for the World League Round Two which Malaysia will host in January.
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Monday, April 25, 2016
Dharma's women on a mission...
THE Malaysian women's team will head for Japan on May 1, to begin a journey which coach K. Dharmaraj hopes will end at the 2018 England World Cup.
For the record, Malaysian women have yet to play in the World Cup, and have also yet to cross Round Two of the World League -- history which Dharmaraj plans to re-write.
"We will be heading for Japan for a 10-day Tour to play against their juniors. This is among the plans to get the women ready for the World League Round Two, which Malaysia will host
in January.
"We have yet to advance into the WL Semi-finals, and that is what I aim to achieve with these players," said Dharmaraj.
The women are enjoying a second life under Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal, as they have played in a Four-Nation in Hong Kong and became champions
by beating Taiwan, Kazakhstan and the hosts,
They then went on a Tour of China, where they played five quality matches against the China juniors.
However, for the Japan Tour of five matches against their juniors, Dharmaraj will not have senior goalkeeper Farah Ayuni Yahya and outfield player Noor Hasliza Ali -- as both of them
will be attending a nine-month training stint to become Policewomen.
"Farah has been our top goalkeeper for at least seven years and in her absence I wil be fielding two juniors. Even though this might pose problems at the Japan Tour, but in the long
run, it will benefit the country," said Dharmaraj.
Both the senior players, however, will be available to play in the World League Round Two in January.
In the recent WL Round One held in Singapore, Thailand became champions, Kazakhstan were second and the hosts third and all three countries will play in the WL Round Two in Kuala
Lumpur.
"Four teams (including Malaysia) have confirmed for the KL World League, and I believe Ireland and Italy will be among the other four. We need to play in the final of Round Two, and
qualify for the World League Semi-finals to break our duck.
"After that, I believe we have a chance to play in the 2018 England World Cup, by playing our cards right in the quarter-finals," said Dharmaraj who has coached the Malaysian men
and boys at the World Cup level.
SOJC: Motley Crew from Malaysia...
THE Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC) holds little importance for Malaysia this year, but the other five teams will use it to prepare for the Junior World Cup in New Delhi.
Malaysia failed to qualify for the Junior World Cup, when they finished fifth in the Kuantan Junior Asia Cup.
The other five SOJC teams -- England, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Japan -- have all qualified for the Junior World Cup and will be at their best in Johor Baru on Oct 31-Nov 6.
Japan were invited after two-time champions India withdrew, after confirming their entry earlier.
The SOJC team will be handled by development coaches Wallace Tan and Amin Rahim.
"After we failed to qualify for the Junior World Cup, the team was disbanded and we might have some difficulties forming a formidable side," said Amin.
This is because there are only 15 players in training under the development coaches, and so, the Razak Cup will be a selection ground for the SOJC.
"My advise to those who played in the Junior Asia Cup, as well as those who aspire to play in the Under-21 SOJC, is to keep themselves fit and give their best in the Razak Cup.
"The plan right now is to select players from this tournament, and maybe, train for two months before the SOJC," said Amin.
The Razak Cup will be held on may 21-29 at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Saturday, April 23, 2016
KLHA 1MAS mess cleared...
THE Kuala Lumpur 1MAS programme is in a big mess, because of miss-information among parents, KL officials and director Tai Beng Hai.
Kuala Lumpur HA suspended their 1MAS Boys' programe in February without informing Beng Hai, and it has since spiralled in an all-out 'war' among the stake holders -- namely parents who are anxious to know if their children can play in the Under-13 tournament on May 7.
"This issue has been blown out of proportion because of misunderstanding, and for starters, KLHA stopped the boys programme without informing 1MAS," said Beng Hai.
KLHA's have their own reason, and according to their secretary V. Rajamanickam not more than nine boys attend training at any one of their sessions.
"We had to suspend the boys 1MAS programme because of lack of attendance. At ony one time, only about nine under-13 boys turn up for the training under coaches K. Embaraj, S. Selvaraju and S. Bubalan.
"So, we decided to suspend the programme, and are in the midst of trying to re-vamp it. The girls section has no problems because they attract a large number of trainees," said Rajamanickam.
Beng Hai met with KLHA development chairman Datuk N. Sri Shanmuganathan yesterday to clear the air, and it looks like the KL boys will not be victims of misunderstanding.
"I had a meeting with Sri Shan today (yesterday) and he is in the midst of getting new coaches to revamp their 1MAS programme because some of the previous coaches like K. Rajan and Selvaraju left because of other commitments.
"In the end, to clear the mess of misinformation, I would like to assure parents that their children can still play in the 1MAS under-13 tournament and all we need is a list of players from KLHA so that we can buy insurance, and they will be allowed to play in the tournament.
"The 1MAS programme is to develop grassroots, and rest assured, players will not be victimised because of misinformation, or any other external issues.
"As long as the states send us a list of their players, we will accommodate them in tournaments and other zonal programmes," said Beng Hai.
Beng Hai is expected to meet Rajamanickam on Monday to clear the air further.
Sanction saga: All is well say AHF
THE ASIAN Hockey Federation (AHF) are in negotiations with the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) regarding the stiff sanction fee to host the Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) at the end of the year.
Initially, the AHF had asked for a whopping RM155,000 (US40,000) sanction fee from the MHF, but the figure is still under discussion.
AHF CEO Tayyab Ikram said yesterday that since the matter is still under discussion he can't divulge much information.
"Suffice to say that the matter is being discussed and we are in a good discussion. I must say very positive discussions, so its not wise for me to comment on any statements made by others," said Ikram.
An official of the MHC had said that AHF wanted higher hosting fees than the previous editions because of broadcasting rights as well as video-umpiring coming into the picture.
The AHF event made its debut in 2011 in Ordos, China, followed by Doha, Oatar, in 2012 and Kakamigahara, Japan, in 2013.
India won the inaugural title in Ordos, while Pakistan were champions in Doha and Kakamigahara. Malaysia finished third in all three editions.
The tournament is not a qualifier and neither does it provide any International Hockey Federation (FIH) ranking points.
The late AHF president Sultan Azlan Shah and secretary Tan Sri P. Alagendra were among those who strongly proposed to hold an Asian tournament in 2007.
Alagandra was quoted at the sidelines of the 2007 Asia Cup in Chennai: "The idea mooted by the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) chief K.P.S Gill has been accepted by AHF. It will fill the void of quality tourneys in the Asian continent."
India were supposed to host the first three editions but they failed to organise the event. Ordos, Inner Mongolia, started the ball rolling with a minimal sanction fee.
"Initially, we never had full broadcasting and there was no video umpiring (in the last three editions), but for the next ACT, we have made full arrangements for both (which doubled the cost)," said Ikram.
If the sanction issue is resolved, Kuantan is expected to host the Fourth Edition which will involve the top-six Asian Games teams.
ends/
Friday, April 22, 2016
AHF's killer sanction fee ...
THE Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) are keen to host the Fourth Edition of the Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) this year, but a sanction fee of RM155,000 (US40,000) is fast turning into a thorny issue.
The Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) event was first mooted in 2011 and held in Ordos, China, followed by Doha, Oatar, in 2012 and Kakamigahara, Japan, in 2013.
An MHC official who declined to be named said the fee is too high, and they are still in negotiations with the AHF.
"The MHC placed a bid to host the ACT but were shocked when we found out that the sanction fee is RM155,000. We told the AHF that we are willing to fork out US20,00 and meet them half-way, but have yet to receive a response," said the official.
A former AHF official was also shocked with the sudden rise in the ACT sanction fees.
"When we initiated the ACT, it was to move Asian hockey to a higher level by playing in an annual tournament because the continent was far behind European teams which only needed to cross borders by bus to play friendlies or tournaments to improve.
"If the present batch of AHF officials want to turn it into a money-making event, they have got their priorities all wrong," said the former AHF official.
The AHF had charged a sanction fee of US10,000 for Malaysia to host the Junior Asia Cup in Kuantan, where Malaysia failed to clinch the Junior World Cup ticket.
"We agreed to pay US10,000 for the Junior Asia Cup, believing it would help Malaysia's cause to qualify for the Junior World Cup by having home ground advantage.
"But the ACT is not a qualifier and it does not even qualify for International Hockey Federation (FIH) ranking points.
"The ACT is just to improve Asian hockey, which lacks tournaments, and so we believe that by imposing hefty sanction fees, it no longer serves its purpose," said the MHC official.
Japan, Bangladesh and Malaysia placed bids for the ACT, and the AHF have struck out Japan because they hosted the last event.
Then there is also the issue of title sponsors and TV rights which the AHF wants to control: "If AHF agree with meeting MHC at the half-way mark of US20,000 then we can continue with other negotiations which involves title sponsors and TV rights. If
not, discussing about the other two issues is worthless at this moment."
India won the inaugural title in Ordos, while Pakistan were champions in Doha and Kakamigahara. Malaysia finished third in all three editions.
Sunday, April 17, 2016
MHC to impose sanction fees for Azlan Shah Cup and Sultan of Johor Cup...
THE Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) Executive Board has decided to impose sanction fees to states which organise international tournaments.
The Azlan Shah Cup hosted by Perak, and the Sultan of Johor Cup hosted by Johor will have to pay MHC sanction fees in the next editions.
"This is inline with what the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and Asian Hockey Comfederation (AHF) have been imposing on MHC for organising tournaments," said MHC CEO K. Logan Raj.
"These fees, however, will not burden the organisers. The amount is still being wrked out, but I would like to say again, it will not be exorbitant. The quantum acquired from each host will then be used for the development of the game," said Logan.
The mHC have also cleared their RM2.9 million in owing, assumed when the new MHC Executive Board was announced as administrators of the sport on May 13 2015.
"MHC president Datuk Sri Subahan Kamal had pledged to settle this enormous debt within 12 months of his administration. True to his words, this feat has been achieved after 11 months.
"According to the MHC Strategic Plan, fiscal governance remains one of the key milestones in our pursuit for overall excellence both on and off the field.
"We have announced that financially, we aspire to reduce Accounts Payable (AP) aging to a maximum of 30 days. We are now 91% compliant," said Logan.
The MHC also endorsed Japan Tours for the men and women's national teams.
"The men will play six matches from June 6-16 of which four will be will be practice and two official Test matches.
"The senior women will play five matches on May 2-10, against the Japan national juniors."
"The MHC has also initiated the TNB State League. As it stands, three States have kick-started their League, namely Malacca, Pahang and Kelantan. Each state will be granted RM 50,000 to run their League this year.
"An initial funding of RM 10,000, which makes 20% of the total RM50,000 granted, has been provided to the State HAs. The balance of which will be provided at a later date."
The Azlan Shah Cup hosted by Perak, and the Sultan of Johor Cup hosted by Johor will have to pay MHC sanction fees in the next editions.
"This is inline with what the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and Asian Hockey Comfederation (AHF) have been imposing on MHC for organising tournaments," said MHC CEO K. Logan Raj.
"These fees, however, will not burden the organisers. The amount is still being wrked out, but I would like to say again, it will not be exorbitant. The quantum acquired from each host will then be used for the development of the game," said Logan.
The mHC have also cleared their RM2.9 million in owing, assumed when the new MHC Executive Board was announced as administrators of the sport on May 13 2015.
"MHC president Datuk Sri Subahan Kamal had pledged to settle this enormous debt within 12 months of his administration. True to his words, this feat has been achieved after 11 months.
"According to the MHC Strategic Plan, fiscal governance remains one of the key milestones in our pursuit for overall excellence both on and off the field.
"We have announced that financially, we aspire to reduce Accounts Payable (AP) aging to a maximum of 30 days. We are now 91% compliant," said Logan.
The MHC also endorsed Japan Tours for the men and women's national teams.
"The men will play six matches from June 6-16 of which four will be will be practice and two official Test matches.
"The senior women will play five matches on May 2-10, against the Japan national juniors."
"The MHC has also initiated the TNB State League. As it stands, three States have kick-started their League, namely Malacca, Pahang and Kelantan. Each state will be granted RM 50,000 to run their League this year.
"An initial funding of RM 10,000, which makes 20% of the total RM50,000 granted, has been provided to the State HAs. The balance of which will be provided at a later date."
Saturday, April 16, 2016
Australia on 9th Heaven ...
In the Azlan Shah Cup final, Australia beat India 4-0 for their ninth gold medal.
The World No 1 got their goals off Thomas Craig (25th, 35th) and Matt Gohdes (43rd, 57th).
Australia are the early favourites to play in the final of the Rio de Janeiro.
The World No 1 got their goals off Thomas Craig (25th, 35th) and Matt Gohdes (43rd, 57th).
Australia are the early favourites to play in the final of the Rio de Janeiro.
Another Malaysian sob story...
NEW Zealand beat Malaysia to the bronze in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup in a tensed shoot-out, after the match ended 3-3 in Ipoh Saturday.
The Kwis scored all five, while Fitri Shaari missed the last shoot-out to bow out 5-4.
Coach Stephen van Huizen's men, who finished at the bottom last year, had plenty of time to kill off the match after taking a 2-0 lead by the 11th minute.
But they toyed around with New Zealand who came back strongly to draw level at 2-2. Malaysia again took the lead, only to be taken into a shoot-out with one minute remaining.
Ramadan Rosli (4th) and Fitri Shaari (11th) made it 2-0, Hayden Phillips (27th) and Kane Russell (43rd) made it 2-2.
Shahril Saabah (43rd) brought momentary cheers to the Malaysian side, but Russel (59th) had the last laugh.
"I'am extremely disappointed for the boys to finish they way they did because they played some good hockey against higher ranked teams in this tournament.
"We held (world no 8) New Zealand 3-3 in the pool, and again 3-3 today (yesterday) but in a shoot-out there is no more guarantee," said Van Huizen.
Malaysia used both their goalkeepers yesterday -- Hafizuddin Othman for four quarters and Hairi Rahman for the shoot-out.
Both of them displayed moments of brilliance, followed by moments of madness.
"We tried both the goalkeepers equally in this tournament and I believe they will become better players by facing more experienced opponents in the long run."
For the record, Malaysia's No 1 goalkeeper S. Kumar was left out of this tournament due to injury.
New Zealand coach Colin Batch lauded his players self-believe.
"We were 0-2 down, but my players kept believing in themselves and the end result is very pleasing as we prepare for the Olympics," said Batch.
RESULTS Final: Australia x India x; Third-Fourth: Malaysia 3 New Zealand 3 (New Zealand win 5-4 in shoot-out); Fifth-Sixth: Canada 1 Pakistan 3.
The Kwis scored all five, while Fitri Shaari missed the last shoot-out to bow out 5-4.
Coach Stephen van Huizen's men, who finished at the bottom last year, had plenty of time to kill off the match after taking a 2-0 lead by the 11th minute.
But they toyed around with New Zealand who came back strongly to draw level at 2-2. Malaysia again took the lead, only to be taken into a shoot-out with one minute remaining.
Ramadan Rosli (4th) and Fitri Shaari (11th) made it 2-0, Hayden Phillips (27th) and Kane Russell (43rd) made it 2-2.
Shahril Saabah (43rd) brought momentary cheers to the Malaysian side, but Russel (59th) had the last laugh.
"I'am extremely disappointed for the boys to finish they way they did because they played some good hockey against higher ranked teams in this tournament.
"We held (world no 8) New Zealand 3-3 in the pool, and again 3-3 today (yesterday) but in a shoot-out there is no more guarantee," said Van Huizen.
Malaysia used both their goalkeepers yesterday -- Hafizuddin Othman for four quarters and Hairi Rahman for the shoot-out.
Both of them displayed moments of brilliance, followed by moments of madness.
"We tried both the goalkeepers equally in this tournament and I believe they will become better players by facing more experienced opponents in the long run."
For the record, Malaysia's No 1 goalkeeper S. Kumar was left out of this tournament due to injury.
New Zealand coach Colin Batch lauded his players self-believe.
"We were 0-2 down, but my players kept believing in themselves and the end result is very pleasing as we prepare for the Olympics," said Batch.
RESULTS Final: Australia x India x; Third-Fourth: Malaysia 3 New Zealand 3 (New Zealand win 5-4 in shoot-out); Fifth-Sixth: Canada 1 Pakistan 3.
May the Force be with with them...
Four national players will serve the country in a different uniform soon.
National skipper Razie Rahim and midfielder Nabil Fiqri; and national women's players Farah Ayuni Yahya and Noor Hasliza Ali will be reporting or Police Inspectors training with the Royal Malaysian Police on May 8.
MHC vice president and coaching committee chairman Datuk Ow Soon Kooi was instrumental in convincing the players to join the Force.
Being a former police inspector himself, having donned national colours for 11 years and captaining the team for four years, Soon Kooi is well aware of the fact that having a good career will help the players develop their game.
"This will give them a professional career and life after their playing days are over," said Soon Kooi.
National skipper Razie Rahim and midfielder Nabil Fiqri; and national women's players Farah Ayuni Yahya and Noor Hasliza Ali will be reporting or Police Inspectors training with the Royal Malaysian Police on May 8.
MHC vice president and coaching committee chairman Datuk Ow Soon Kooi was instrumental in convincing the players to join the Force.
Being a former police inspector himself, having donned national colours for 11 years and captaining the team for four years, Soon Kooi is well aware of the fact that having a good career will help the players develop their game.
"This will give them a professional career and life after their playing days are over," said Soon Kooi.
India pull out of Sultan of Johor Cup...
INDIA yesterday withdrew from the Sultan Johor Cup, even though they had confirmed to play in the tournament on Oct 31-Nov 6 in Johor Baru.
Tournament organisers Johor HA, perplexed with the sudden withdrawal. have invited Japan instead.
"It is surprising that India withdrew from tournament after confirming their entry. They have been regulars since its inception in 2011," said JHA deputy president Manjit Singh is also the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) vice-president.
"I have no idea why they withdrew, its a decision only known to Hockey India."
The tournament will be a six-team affair again this year and those who have confirmed are Japan, England, New Zealand, Pakistan Australia and Malaysia.
For the record Britain beat India in a shoot-out in last years final.
Malaysia are expected to field a development squad coached by Wallace Tan since the junior team was disbanded after failing to qualify for the Junior World Cup.
Tournament organisers Johor HA, perplexed with the sudden withdrawal. have invited Japan instead.
"It is surprising that India withdrew from tournament after confirming their entry. They have been regulars since its inception in 2011," said JHA deputy president Manjit Singh is also the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) vice-president.
"I have no idea why they withdrew, its a decision only known to Hockey India."
The tournament will be a six-team affair again this year and those who have confirmed are Japan, England, New Zealand, Pakistan Australia and Malaysia.
For the record Britain beat India in a shoot-out in last years final.
Malaysia are expected to field a development squad coached by Wallace Tan since the junior team was disbanded after failing to qualify for the Junior World Cup.
Friday, April 15, 2016
Malaysia play New Zealand for bronze...
MALAYSIA will play New Zealand in the Third-Fourth placing match of the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh Saturday.
Yesterday, Malaysia were hammered 6-1 by India, who checked into the final against World No 1 Australia.
After playing five super matches, Malaysia played like schoolboys in-front of a packed gallery.
India came out looking for a spot in the final and scored two quick goals inside 10 minutes of play.
However, India were made to look good by Malaysian defenders Izad Jamaluddin and Razie Rahim, whose poor clearenceas led to the early goals.
First Razie's soft clearenace was turned into goal by Chandanda Thimmaiah in the third minute, and then Izad gave away the ball to Harjeet Singh for the second goal in the seventh minute.
Skipper Razie, playing like a novice, gave away the third penalty corner which also earned him a yellow card for a bad tackle.
Ramandeep Singh scored in the 25th minute, and India were on their way to playing in the final today against Australia.
And Danish Mujtaba made it 4-0 in the 27th minute, off a penalty corner rebound. Ramandeep got his brace in the 39th, and Talwinder Singh made it 6-1 in the 58th minute.
Shahril Saabah scored Malaysia's consolation in the 46th minute.
Meanwhile he International Hockey Federation (FIH) yesterday made another mockery, and mess of their tournaments, when they, for the umpteenth time plan to change the Olympics and World Cup qualifying format.
And they also officially killed the Champions Trophy --- as it would not be held after 2018. The Champions Trophy made its debut in 1978, and was the brainchild of Pakistan.
FIH president Leandro Negro made the announcement in Ipoh yesterday.
"We will do away with the Champions Trophy after 2018, and also have a new format for the World League. There will no longer be a World League Semifinals and Finals, but after the World League Round One and Round Two, we will hold direct qualifying tournaments for World Cup and Olympics," said Negre in Ipoh.
World No 1 Australia, who had already qualified for the final, went on to beat Canada 3-0 in their final pool match.
The Australian goals were scored by Mark Knowles (16th), Blake Govers (33rd) and Flynn Ogilvie (36th).
In another match, Pakistan beat Japan 4-1 to play against Canada in the fifth-sixth classification.
The Pakistan goals were scored by Ali Shan (20th), Rizwan Ali (24th), Arslan Qadir (48th, 57th).
Shota Yamada scored for Japan in the 48th minute.
FINAL STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 6 6 0 0 21 3 18
INDIA 6 4 0 2 18 11 12
N ZEALAND 6 3 2 1 15 10 11
MALAYSIA 6 2 2 2 12 19 8
PAKISTAN 6 2 0 4 11 17 6
CANADA 6 1 2 3 8 13 5
JAPAN 6 0 0 6 8 20 0
RESULTS Japan 1 Pakistan 4, Australia 3 Canada 0, Malaysia 1 India 6.
April 16: Final: Australia v India (8.35pm); Third-Fourth: Malaysia v New Zealand (6.05pm); Fifth-Sixth: Canada v Pakistan (3.40pm).
Yesterday, Malaysia were hammered 6-1 by India, who checked into the final against World No 1 Australia.
After playing five super matches, Malaysia played like schoolboys in-front of a packed gallery.
India came out looking for a spot in the final and scored two quick goals inside 10 minutes of play.
However, India were made to look good by Malaysian defenders Izad Jamaluddin and Razie Rahim, whose poor clearenceas led to the early goals.
First Razie's soft clearenace was turned into goal by Chandanda Thimmaiah in the third minute, and then Izad gave away the ball to Harjeet Singh for the second goal in the seventh minute.
Skipper Razie, playing like a novice, gave away the third penalty corner which also earned him a yellow card for a bad tackle.
Ramandeep Singh scored in the 25th minute, and India were on their way to playing in the final today against Australia.
And Danish Mujtaba made it 4-0 in the 27th minute, off a penalty corner rebound. Ramandeep got his brace in the 39th, and Talwinder Singh made it 6-1 in the 58th minute.
Shahril Saabah scored Malaysia's consolation in the 46th minute.
Meanwhile he International Hockey Federation (FIH) yesterday made another mockery, and mess of their tournaments, when they, for the umpteenth time plan to change the Olympics and World Cup qualifying format.
And they also officially killed the Champions Trophy --- as it would not be held after 2018. The Champions Trophy made its debut in 1978, and was the brainchild of Pakistan.
FIH president Leandro Negro made the announcement in Ipoh yesterday.
"We will do away with the Champions Trophy after 2018, and also have a new format for the World League. There will no longer be a World League Semifinals and Finals, but after the World League Round One and Round Two, we will hold direct qualifying tournaments for World Cup and Olympics," said Negre in Ipoh.
World No 1 Australia, who had already qualified for the final, went on to beat Canada 3-0 in their final pool match.
The Australian goals were scored by Mark Knowles (16th), Blake Govers (33rd) and Flynn Ogilvie (36th).
In another match, Pakistan beat Japan 4-1 to play against Canada in the fifth-sixth classification.
The Pakistan goals were scored by Ali Shan (20th), Rizwan Ali (24th), Arslan Qadir (48th, 57th).
Shota Yamada scored for Japan in the 48th minute.
FINAL STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 6 6 0 0 21 3 18
INDIA 6 4 0 2 18 11 12
N ZEALAND 6 3 2 1 15 10 11
MALAYSIA 6 2 2 2 12 19 8
PAKISTAN 6 2 0 4 11 17 6
CANADA 6 1 2 3 8 13 5
JAPAN 6 0 0 6 8 20 0
RESULTS Japan 1 Pakistan 4, Australia 3 Canada 0, Malaysia 1 India 6.
April 16: Final: Australia v India (8.35pm); Third-Fourth: Malaysia v New Zealand (6.05pm); Fifth-Sixth: Canada v Pakistan (3.40pm).
Australia 3 Canada 0
AZLAN SHAH CUP IPOH
World No 1 Australia, who had already qualified for the final, went on to beat Canada 3-0 in their final pool match.
The Australian goals were scored by Mark Knowles (16th), Blake Govers (33rd), Flynn Ogilvie (36th).
Canada won a 60th minute penalty stroke but Scott Tupper failed to beat goal keeper Tyler Lovell.
World No 1 Australia, who had already qualified for the final, went on to beat Canada 3-0 in their final pool match.
The Australian goals were scored by Mark Knowles (16th), Blake Govers (33rd), Flynn Ogilvie (36th).
Canada won a 60th minute penalty stroke but Scott Tupper failed to beat goal keeper Tyler Lovell.
FIH plan to make a mess again...
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) Friday made another mockery, and mess of their tournaments, when they, for the umpteenth time plan to change the Olympics and World Cup qualifying format.
And they also officially killed the Champions Trophy --- as it would not be held after 2018. The Champions Trophy made its debut in 1978, and was the brainchild of Pakistan.
FIH president Leandro Negro made the announcement in Ipoh yesterday.
"We will do away with the Champions Trophy after 2018, and also have a new format for the World League. There will no longer be a World League Semifinals and Finals, but after the World League Round One and Round Two, we will hold direct qualifying tournaments for World Cup and Olympics," said Negre in Ipoh Friday.
Pakistan 4 Japan 1
AZLAN SHAH CUP IPOH
Pakistan beat Japan 4-1 to play against Canada in the fifth-sixth classification on Saturday.
The Pakistan goals were scored by Ali Shan (20th), Rizwan Ali (24th), Arslan Qadir (48th, 57th).
Shota Yamada scored for Japan in the 48th minute.
Pakistan beat Japan 4-1 to play against Canada in the fifth-sixth classification on Saturday.
The Pakistan goals were scored by Ali Shan (20th), Rizwan Ali (24th), Arslan Qadir (48th, 57th).
Shota Yamada scored for Japan in the 48th minute.
Thursday, April 14, 2016
Impossible eight...possible bronze
TO PLAY in the final of the Azlan Shah Cup, Malaysia must beat India by an eight-goal margin in Ipoh Friday.
Its an impossible task for coach Stephen van Huizen's charges, as the last meeting between the two teams in the World League Semifinals in Antwerp, saw India winning 3-2 in the quarter-finals to shut Malaysia out of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
However, for India to pip defending champions New Zealand into the final, they only need a win against Malaysia.
"It's almost impossible to play in the final, but we need to win this match against India, and then play them again in the bronze medal match," concurred van Huizen.
A draw will see New Zealand play a repeat final against Australia.
"Like I said before, the Azlan Shah Cup is our first step towards team-rebuilding. The Antwerp 'disaster' has placed us about five years behind other teams and it is pertinent that we start rebuilding in Ipoh for the World League challenge," said van Huizen.
Malaysia only lost one match in Ipoh, 5-1 against Australia, but that too was a close match and the World No 1 only broke free when they went on a three-goal blitzkrieg inside three minutes.
The two draws, 3-3 against New Zealand and 2-2 against Canada, dented Malaysia's hopes of playing in the final.
"Both the draws and defeat were against teams who are preparing for the Olympics and even though we should have collected full points aganst Canada, mistakes crept into the our late game.
"We can't afford this against India tomorrow (today)," said van Huizen.
However, the statistics change for Malaysia if Canada beat Australia in the earlier match, and the hosts lose to India, which will force the national team to play in the fifth-sixth classification.
Razie Rahim is the top-scorer of the fournament with five goals, and Malaysia's penalty corner battery might just be the secret to beat India today.
For the record, Malaysia and India have played 20 matches in 25 editions of the Azlan Shah Cup and India won 13, lost three and drew four.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 5 5 0 0 18 3 15
N ZEALAND 6 3 2 1 15 10 11
INDIA 5 3 0 2 12 10 9
MALAYSIA 5 2 2 1 11 13 8
CANADA 5 1 2 2 8 10 5
PAKISTAN 5 1 0 4 7 16 3
JAPAN 5 0 0 5 7 16 0
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
Its an impossible task for coach Stephen van Huizen's charges, as the last meeting between the two teams in the World League Semifinals in Antwerp, saw India winning 3-2 in the quarter-finals to shut Malaysia out of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
However, for India to pip defending champions New Zealand into the final, they only need a win against Malaysia.
"It's almost impossible to play in the final, but we need to win this match against India, and then play them again in the bronze medal match," concurred van Huizen.
A draw will see New Zealand play a repeat final against Australia.
"Like I said before, the Azlan Shah Cup is our first step towards team-rebuilding. The Antwerp 'disaster' has placed us about five years behind other teams and it is pertinent that we start rebuilding in Ipoh for the World League challenge," said van Huizen.
Malaysia only lost one match in Ipoh, 5-1 against Australia, but that too was a close match and the World No 1 only broke free when they went on a three-goal blitzkrieg inside three minutes.
The two draws, 3-3 against New Zealand and 2-2 against Canada, dented Malaysia's hopes of playing in the final.
"Both the draws and defeat were against teams who are preparing for the Olympics and even though we should have collected full points aganst Canada, mistakes crept into the our late game.
"We can't afford this against India tomorrow (today)," said van Huizen.
However, the statistics change for Malaysia if Canada beat Australia in the earlier match, and the hosts lose to India, which will force the national team to play in the fifth-sixth classification.
Razie Rahim is the top-scorer of the fournament with five goals, and Malaysia's penalty corner battery might just be the secret to beat India today.
For the record, Malaysia and India have played 20 matches in 25 editions of the Azlan Shah Cup and India won 13, lost three and drew four.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 5 5 0 0 18 3 15
N ZEALAND 6 3 2 1 15 10 11
INDIA 5 3 0 2 12 10 9
MALAYSIA 5 2 2 1 11 13 8
CANADA 5 1 2 2 8 10 5
PAKISTAN 5 1 0 4 7 16 3
JAPAN 5 0 0 5 7 16 0
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Fitness 1 Pakistan 0...
FITNESS helped Malaysia beat Pakistan 1-0 to keep their hopes of a medal finish alive in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh yesterday.
Armed with a single goal scored in the fourth minute, Malaysia stopped every trick the Pakistan team threw at them to have a better chance of playing for the bronze medal.
Malaysia took an early lead off their first penalty corner in the fourth minute, but bungled many sitters after that.
It was Razie Rahim's drive that gave Malaysia some breathing space until the half-time hooter.
Pakistan's best chance to equalise came in the 33rd minute when Ajaz Ahmad found himself alone with goalkeeper Hairi Rahman after a break-away 20 meter sprint.
However, Hairi saved the first attempt, and a follow on attempt from Ajaz to deny Pakistan the equaliser.
Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) technical director Terry Walsh said the national team have completed their Phase One of training, and fitness is now at a higher level.
"As you can see in all the matches so far, the Malaysian team has been playing on high gear and fitness is no longer a problem. This is the first step towards preparing the team for the World League (which is a World Cup qualifier)," said Walsh who is down in Ipoh.
Walsh also feels that even though Malaysia have their own style of play, 'it has not been effective in recent tournaments'.
"The Malaysian style of playing has its own good and bad points, and the next step will be to keep the good and work on eliminating the bad points which have been hindering progress. This will take time, and I believe if we work hard for the next two years there will be results.
"But for comprehensive results, it will take at least 10 years to work from the bottom to the top. This is because the base (youth) is still the weakest point.
"We need to have a strong base, and this will take at least a decade," said Walsh.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 5 5 0 0 18 3 15
N ZEALAND 6 3 2 1 15 10 11
INDIA 5 3 0 2 12 10 9
MALAYSIA 5 2 2 1 11 13 8
CANADA 5 1 2 2 8 10 5
PAKISTAN 5 1 0 4 7 16 3
JAPAN 5 0 0 5 7 16 0
RESULTS: New Zealand 2 India 1, Australia 3 Japan 1, Malaysia 1 Pakistan 0.
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
Armed with a single goal scored in the fourth minute, Malaysia stopped every trick the Pakistan team threw at them to have a better chance of playing for the bronze medal.
Malaysia took an early lead off their first penalty corner in the fourth minute, but bungled many sitters after that.
It was Razie Rahim's drive that gave Malaysia some breathing space until the half-time hooter.
Pakistan's best chance to equalise came in the 33rd minute when Ajaz Ahmad found himself alone with goalkeeper Hairi Rahman after a break-away 20 meter sprint.
However, Hairi saved the first attempt, and a follow on attempt from Ajaz to deny Pakistan the equaliser.
Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) technical director Terry Walsh said the national team have completed their Phase One of training, and fitness is now at a higher level.
"As you can see in all the matches so far, the Malaysian team has been playing on high gear and fitness is no longer a problem. This is the first step towards preparing the team for the World League (which is a World Cup qualifier)," said Walsh who is down in Ipoh.
Walsh also feels that even though Malaysia have their own style of play, 'it has not been effective in recent tournaments'.
"The Malaysian style of playing has its own good and bad points, and the next step will be to keep the good and work on eliminating the bad points which have been hindering progress. This will take time, and I believe if we work hard for the next two years there will be results.
"But for comprehensive results, it will take at least 10 years to work from the bottom to the top. This is because the base (youth) is still the weakest point.
"We need to have a strong base, and this will take at least a decade," said Walsh.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 5 5 0 0 18 3 15
N ZEALAND 6 3 2 1 15 10 11
INDIA 5 3 0 2 12 10 9
MALAYSIA 5 2 2 1 11 13 8
CANADA 5 1 2 2 8 10 5
PAKISTAN 5 1 0 4 7 16 3
JAPAN 5 0 0 5 7 16 0
RESULTS: New Zealand 2 India 1, Australia 3 Japan 1, Malaysia 1 Pakistan 0.
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
Australia check into final...
AZLAN SHAH CUP
WORLD No 1 Australia cemented their final spot in the Azlan Shah Cup on Wednesday when they edged Japan 3-1 in Ipoh.
Australia got their goals off Jamie Dwyer (17th, 36th), Blake Govers (30th).
Kentaro Fukuda (37th) scored for Japan.
WORLD No 1 Australia cemented their final spot in the Azlan Shah Cup on Wednesday when they edged Japan 3-1 in Ipoh.
Australia got their goals off Jamie Dwyer (17th, 36th), Blake Govers (30th).
Kentaro Fukuda (37th) scored for Japan.
New Zealand 2 India 1
AZLAN SHAH CUP IPOH
New Zealand beat India 2-1 to step closer to playing in the final on Saturday.
The defending champions have 11 points after completing their pool fixtures. The Kiwi goals were scored by Kane Russell (28th) and Nick Wilson (41st), while Mandeep Singh scored for India in the 36th minute.
New Zealand beat India 2-1 to step closer to playing in the final on Saturday.
The defending champions have 11 points after completing their pool fixtures. The Kiwi goals were scored by Kane Russell (28th) and Nick Wilson (41st), while Mandeep Singh scored for India in the 36th minute.
Malaysia 2 Canada 2
With five points after four matches, Malaysia are out of the running to play in the final, but can salvage some pride by winning against Pakistan and India in the next matches to play for the bronze.
Playing in front of another capacity crowd, Malaysia played a fast-paced game but after 15 minutes, they failed to break the duck as Canada defenders played a robust game.
The national players needed a win, at any cost, to make sure they finish among the top-four in the 25th Edition.
But it was Canada who took the lead off their skipper Scott Tupper, who converted a penalty corner in the 21st minute.
Malaysia were rewarded for pushing forward in numbers, when Shahril Saabh perfected a penalty corner set-piece in the 29th minute to draw level and enter the half-time dressing room with some breathing space.
After the break, Shahril's shot at goal was deflected in by Nabil Fiqri in the 31st minute, and Malaysia were back in the match.
However, in the last five minutes of the third quarter, Malaysian defenders started taking unnecessary risks and were punished by Matthew Guest in the 45th minute -- 20 seconds from the break hooter.
The score stood, and Malaysia held the the Olympic-bound Canadians.
"Both the teams came out looking for a win to move higher on the standings, but we missed too many crosses across the goalmouth that forced us to share points.
"However, it was another good game from my players and we are still within our target of finishing among the top four in the tournament, provided we get the better of Pakistan tomorrow (today) and India in our final pool match," said Malaysian coach Stephen van Huizen.
Australia edged New Zealand 1-0 to place a foot in the final of the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh Tuesday.
Jamie Dwyer, who will be playing in his fourth Olympics in Brazil, made the difference with a 22nd minute penalty corner goal.
Defending champions New Zealand tried to steal a point from the World N 1 by removing their goalkeeper in the last four minutes of the match, but failed to score off the four penalty corners they won.
In another match, India hammered Pakistan 5-1 with goals from Manpreet Singh (4th), Sunil Sowmarpet (10th, 41st), Talwinder Singh (50th), Rupinder Pal Singh (54th),
The Pakistan consolation was scored by Muhammad Irfan (7th).
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 4 4 0 0 15 2 12
INDIA 4 3 0 1 11 8 9
N ZEALAND 5 2 2 1 13 9 8
CANADA 5 1 2 2 8 10 5
MALAYSIA 4 1 2 1 10 13 5
PAKISTAN 4 1 0 3 7 15 3
JAPAN 4 0 0 4 6 13 0
RESULTS: Australia 1 New Zealand 0, Pakistan 1 India 5, Malaysia 2 Canada 2.
April 13: New Zealand v India (4pm), Australia v Japan (6pm), Malaysia v Pakistan (8.35pm).
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
India 5 Pakistan 1
In another match, India hammered Pakistan 5-1 with goals from Manpreet Singh (4th), Sunil Sowmarpet (10th, 41st), Talwinder Singh (50th), Rupinder Pal Singh (54th),
The Pakistan consolation was scored by Muhammad Irfan (7th).
The Pakistan consolation was scored by Muhammad Irfan (7th).
Australia 1 New Zealand 0
AZLAN SHAH CUP IPOH
Jamie Dwyer strike...
New Zealand played last 4 minutes without goalkeeper.
Jamie Dwyer strike...
New Zealand played last 4 minutes without goalkeeper.
Monday, April 11, 2016
Canada wary of 15-man Malaysia..
CANADA coach Anthony Farry feels whenever Malaysia plays at home, it looks like they have 15 players on the pitch.
This statement came about on the eve of a crucial Azlan Shah Cup encounter between Malaysia and Canada in Ipoh Tuesday.
A win will place either team in a better footing to play in the third-fourth placing match.
Canada and Malaysia are tied on four points, but Malaysia have played one less match. Canada's last match is against Australia, while Malaysia still have Pakistan and India after this match.
"It simply amazing to see Malaysia play at home, and they have shown great form in all three matches so far. It looks like they have 15 players, not 11 on the pitch," said Farry.
Canada skipper Scott Tupper said the two teams rivalry goes back more than 20 years.
"When ever Canada and Malaysia play, over the last two decades, the matches have always been explosive and entertaining. I believe it will be the same on Tuesday," said Tupper.
The only vast difference between the teams is that Canada have qualified for the Olympics by finishing fourth in the World League Semi-finals in Argentina. While Malaysia finished sixth in the WL Semi-finals in Antwerp and did not qualify.
In Ipoh, Malaysia drew defending champions New Zealand 3-3, beat Japan 4-3 and lost to Australia 5-1.
"For sure this match will be the turning point in our Azlan Shah campaign and we have plans for full points. Canada are in the same boat, and are no pushovers, so I believe it will be difficult but not impossible to beat them," said Malaysian coach Stephen van Huizen.
Skipper Razie Rahim, who is tied on four goals as the tournament top-scorer with Pakistan's Arslan Qadir and New Zealand's Nic Woods, believes his players have the edge.
"We have played well in all three matches, and the big defeat against Australia (5-1) was because of a two-minute lapse of concentration.
"But I believe my team-mates are ready to win their second match of the tournament and keep our sights on finishing among the top-four," said Razie.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 3 3 0 0 14 2 9
N ZEALAND 4 2 2 0 13 8 8
INDIA 3 2 0 1 6 7 6
CANADA 4 1 1 2 6 8 4
MALAYSIA 3 1 1 1 8 11 4
PAKISTAN 3 1 0 2 6 10 3
JAPAN 4 0 0 4 6 13 0
April 11: REST DAY.
April 12: Australia v New Zealand (4pm), Pakistan v India (6pm), Malaysia v Canada (8.35pm).
April 13: New Zealand v India (4pm), Australia v Japan (6pm), Malaysia v Pakistan (8.35pm).
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
This statement came about on the eve of a crucial Azlan Shah Cup encounter between Malaysia and Canada in Ipoh Tuesday.
A win will place either team in a better footing to play in the third-fourth placing match.
Canada and Malaysia are tied on four points, but Malaysia have played one less match. Canada's last match is against Australia, while Malaysia still have Pakistan and India after this match.
"It simply amazing to see Malaysia play at home, and they have shown great form in all three matches so far. It looks like they have 15 players, not 11 on the pitch," said Farry.
Canada skipper Scott Tupper said the two teams rivalry goes back more than 20 years.
"When ever Canada and Malaysia play, over the last two decades, the matches have always been explosive and entertaining. I believe it will be the same on Tuesday," said Tupper.
The only vast difference between the teams is that Canada have qualified for the Olympics by finishing fourth in the World League Semi-finals in Argentina. While Malaysia finished sixth in the WL Semi-finals in Antwerp and did not qualify.
In Ipoh, Malaysia drew defending champions New Zealand 3-3, beat Japan 4-3 and lost to Australia 5-1.
"For sure this match will be the turning point in our Azlan Shah campaign and we have plans for full points. Canada are in the same boat, and are no pushovers, so I believe it will be difficult but not impossible to beat them," said Malaysian coach Stephen van Huizen.
Skipper Razie Rahim, who is tied on four goals as the tournament top-scorer with Pakistan's Arslan Qadir and New Zealand's Nic Woods, believes his players have the edge.
"We have played well in all three matches, and the big defeat against Australia (5-1) was because of a two-minute lapse of concentration.
"But I believe my team-mates are ready to win their second match of the tournament and keep our sights on finishing among the top-four," said Razie.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 3 3 0 0 14 2 9
N ZEALAND 4 2 2 0 13 8 8
INDIA 3 2 0 1 6 7 6
CANADA 4 1 1 2 6 8 4
MALAYSIA 3 1 1 1 8 11 4
PAKISTAN 3 1 0 2 6 10 3
JAPAN 4 0 0 4 6 13 0
April 11: REST DAY.
April 12: Australia v New Zealand (4pm), Pakistan v India (6pm), Malaysia v Canada (8.35pm).
April 13: New Zealand v India (4pm), Australia v Japan (6pm), Malaysia v Pakistan (8.35pm).
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
Selvaraju off to Australia ...10th foreign league
FORMER national player S. Selvaraju, 30, left for Australia yesterday to play in his 10th foreign league.
He last played for the country in the 2009 Invercargill, New Zealand, World Cup qualifier after which he was sidelined because of internal bickering.
"I have played in 10 overseas stints since that, and I am still in demand overseas even though locall coaches feel that I am not up to their mark," said Selvaraju.
He left for Australia yesterday to play for Greater Dandenong Warriors HC until September.
"Since 2010, I have played in New Zealand, France, Germany three times, Italy twice, Hong Kong and Thailand Leagues.
"Malaysian players are in high demand in these countries, and over the years, with my contacts there I have sent many young players to play overseas as well," said Selvaraju.
Selvaraju feels for Malaysian players to progress, they must play in overseas leagues.
"There is no spoon-feeding when you go overseas, everything is on your own and one becomes a better person as well as player in the long run," said Selvaraju.
Selvaraju who made his debut in the 2005 Junior World Cup in Rotterdam, currently plays for Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHC) and also coaches the UniKL development squad.
The other nine clubs Selvaraju has turned out for are Midlands HC New Zealand, Racing Santhder HC France, Wespen HC Germany, Berliner HC Germany, Monchengladbach HC Germany, Armicora HC Italy, Pistotia HC Italy, Khalsa HC Hong Kong, Air force HC Thailand.
Sunday, April 10, 2016
Australia hit Pakistan for four..
WORLD No 1 Australia played another classy match to beat Pakistan 4-0 in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh Sunday.
And after three straight wins, Australia are on course to play in the final yet again.
Blake Govers started the count with a penalty corner goal in the 24th minute, and then four-time Olympian Jamie Dwyer set up Thomas Craig in the 41st minute.
And just after the re-start, Dwyer nailed the third in the 42nd minute.
Aran Zalewski (52nd) made it 4-0.
Defending champions New Zealand beat Japan 4-1 to get back into the title challenge in the Azlan Shah Cup Sunday.
With eight points after three matches, the Kiwis have two more tough matches to play against Australia on Tuesday and India on Wednesday.
The New Zealand goals were scored by Nick Wilso (4th), Simon Child (13th), Nic Woods (27th) and Hugo Inglis (58th).
Kazuma Murata scored for Japan in the 20th minute.
In another match India beat Canada 3-1 with goals Chandanda Thimmaiah (3rd), Harmanpreet Singh (41st) and Talwinder Singh (57th). Keegan Pereira (23rd) scored for Canada.
RESULTS: Japan 1 New Zealand 4, Australia 4 Pakistan 0, Canada 1 India 3.
April 11: REST DAY.
April 12: Australia v New Zealand (4pm), Pakistan v India (6pm), Malaysia v Canada (8.35pm).
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 3 3 0 0 14 2 9
N ZEALAND 4 2 2 0 13 8 8
INDIA 3 2 0 1 6 7 6
CANADA 4 1 1 2 6 8 4
MALAYSIA 3 1 1 1 8 11 4
PAKISTAN 3 1 0 2 6 10 3
JAPAN 4 0 0 4 6 13 0
And after three straight wins, Australia are on course to play in the final yet again.
Blake Govers started the count with a penalty corner goal in the 24th minute, and then four-time Olympian Jamie Dwyer set up Thomas Craig in the 41st minute.
And just after the re-start, Dwyer nailed the third in the 42nd minute.
Aran Zalewski (52nd) made it 4-0.
Defending champions New Zealand beat Japan 4-1 to get back into the title challenge in the Azlan Shah Cup Sunday.
With eight points after three matches, the Kiwis have two more tough matches to play against Australia on Tuesday and India on Wednesday.
The New Zealand goals were scored by Nick Wilso (4th), Simon Child (13th), Nic Woods (27th) and Hugo Inglis (58th).
Kazuma Murata scored for Japan in the 20th minute.
In another match India beat Canada 3-1 with goals Chandanda Thimmaiah (3rd), Harmanpreet Singh (41st) and Talwinder Singh (57th). Keegan Pereira (23rd) scored for Canada.
RESULTS: Japan 1 New Zealand 4, Australia 4 Pakistan 0, Canada 1 India 3.
April 11: REST DAY.
April 12: Australia v New Zealand (4pm), Pakistan v India (6pm), Malaysia v Canada (8.35pm).
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 3 3 0 0 14 2 9
N ZEALAND 4 2 2 0 13 8 8
INDIA 3 2 0 1 6 7 6
CANADA 4 1 1 2 6 8 4
MALAYSIA 3 1 1 1 8 11 4
PAKISTAN 3 1 0 2 6 10 3
JAPAN 4 0 0 4 6 13 0
Saturday, April 9, 2016
Australia's three-minute blitz...
MALAYSIA were beaten 5-1 by World No 1 Australia in a three-minute blitz, in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh yesterday.
Otherwise, the national players played well to contain more than a dozen deadly attacks from the Rio de Janeiro Olympics favourites.
"I have no complaints on this match as my players gave their best but lost out in a three-minute lapse of concentration. My players also did not defend the entire game but came out and played good hockey upfront.
"The next match against Canada on Tuesday will be after a two-day rest and I believe we will make amends to keep ourselves afloat in this tournament," said Malaysian coach Stephen van Huizen.
Australia skipper Mark Knowles, who will be playing in his fourth Olympics in Brazil said: "Well this is what we wanted. We got a very good crowd, and a team which was willing to fight with us all the way."
And he felt the they are on the right track to play in the final: "Ten goals in two matches (they also beat India 5-1) and we are heading in the right direction to play against tough sides like Pakistan and New Zealand."
The Azlan Shah Stadium was filled to the brim, with fans sitting and standing elbow-to-elbow. The cheering, drums and vuvuzelas were deafening, as they cheered on the hosts who held Australia at bay in the first quarter.
It was 15 minutes of 'hell' as Australia took at least eight shots at the Malaysian goalmouth, but stout defending, and good goalkeeping by Hairi Rahman stopped the World No 1.
And Malaysia did not disappoint their fans, as off their first penalty corner in the 24th minute, Razie Rahim scored and the cheering almost brought down the roof.
However, Australia quickly re-grouped after that, and a mis-hit by Jacob Whetton in the 26th minute handed them the equaliser.
At the half-time break, world No 13 Malaysia held the World No 1 at 1-1.
However, after missing many chances, Australia finally got their world class act together and scored three quick goals to seal the match in the third quarter.
Two of the goals were scored inside one minute. In the 40th minute, Flynn Ogilvie scored their second goal, and just after the re-start, Matt Ghodes made it 3-1.
And in the 41st minute, Ogilvie nailed the fourth goal off an easy tap.
The three-goal blitz was an unkind cut to the national team, who played well for most of the match.
Thomas Craig made it 5-1 in the 50th minute.
In another match, defending champions New Zealand made a third-quarter surge to beat Pakistan 5-3.
The New Zealand goals were scored by Stephen Jenness (11th), Simon Child (19th), Nic Woods (39th, 42nd), Kane Russell (43rd),
Pakistan got their goals off Arslan Qadir (8th, 52nd) and Irfan Junior (23rd).
Canada won their first match of the tournament when they beat Japan 3-1.
The Canada goals were scored by Mark Pearson (34th), Gabriel Ho-Garcia (35th) and Scott Tupper (45th).
The Japan consolation was scored by Hiroki Sakamoto in the 42nd minute.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 2 2 0 0 10 2 6
N ZEALAND 3 1 2 0 9 7 5
CANADA 3 1 1 1 5 5 4
MALAYSIA 3 1 1 1 8 11 4
PAKISTAN 2 1 0 1 6 6 3
INDIA 2 1 0 1 3 6 3
JAPAN 3 0 0 3 5 9 0
RESULTS: Japan 1 Canada 3, New Zealand 5 Pakistan 3, Malaysia 1 Australia 5.
April 10: Japan v New Zealand (4pm), Australia v Pakistan (6pm), Canada v India (8.35pm).
Otherwise, the national players played well to contain more than a dozen deadly attacks from the Rio de Janeiro Olympics favourites.
"I have no complaints on this match as my players gave their best but lost out in a three-minute lapse of concentration. My players also did not defend the entire game but came out and played good hockey upfront.
"The next match against Canada on Tuesday will be after a two-day rest and I believe we will make amends to keep ourselves afloat in this tournament," said Malaysian coach Stephen van Huizen.
Australia skipper Mark Knowles, who will be playing in his fourth Olympics in Brazil said: "Well this is what we wanted. We got a very good crowd, and a team which was willing to fight with us all the way."
And he felt the they are on the right track to play in the final: "Ten goals in two matches (they also beat India 5-1) and we are heading in the right direction to play against tough sides like Pakistan and New Zealand."
The Azlan Shah Stadium was filled to the brim, with fans sitting and standing elbow-to-elbow. The cheering, drums and vuvuzelas were deafening, as they cheered on the hosts who held Australia at bay in the first quarter.
It was 15 minutes of 'hell' as Australia took at least eight shots at the Malaysian goalmouth, but stout defending, and good goalkeeping by Hairi Rahman stopped the World No 1.
And Malaysia did not disappoint their fans, as off their first penalty corner in the 24th minute, Razie Rahim scored and the cheering almost brought down the roof.
However, Australia quickly re-grouped after that, and a mis-hit by Jacob Whetton in the 26th minute handed them the equaliser.
At the half-time break, world No 13 Malaysia held the World No 1 at 1-1.
However, after missing many chances, Australia finally got their world class act together and scored three quick goals to seal the match in the third quarter.
Two of the goals were scored inside one minute. In the 40th minute, Flynn Ogilvie scored their second goal, and just after the re-start, Matt Ghodes made it 3-1.
And in the 41st minute, Ogilvie nailed the fourth goal off an easy tap.
The three-goal blitz was an unkind cut to the national team, who played well for most of the match.
Thomas Craig made it 5-1 in the 50th minute.
In another match, defending champions New Zealand made a third-quarter surge to beat Pakistan 5-3.
The New Zealand goals were scored by Stephen Jenness (11th), Simon Child (19th), Nic Woods (39th, 42nd), Kane Russell (43rd),
Pakistan got their goals off Arslan Qadir (8th, 52nd) and Irfan Junior (23rd).
Canada won their first match of the tournament when they beat Japan 3-1.
The Canada goals were scored by Mark Pearson (34th), Gabriel Ho-Garcia (35th) and Scott Tupper (45th).
The Japan consolation was scored by Hiroki Sakamoto in the 42nd minute.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
AUSTRALIA 2 2 0 0 10 2 6
N ZEALAND 3 1 2 0 9 7 5
CANADA 3 1 1 1 5 5 4
MALAYSIA 3 1 1 1 8 11 4
PAKISTAN 2 1 0 1 6 6 3
INDIA 2 1 0 1 3 6 3
JAPAN 3 0 0 3 5 9 0
RESULTS: Japan 1 Canada 3, New Zealand 5 Pakistan 3, Malaysia 1 Australia 5.
April 10: Japan v New Zealand (4pm), Australia v Pakistan (6pm), Canada v India (8.35pm).
New Zealand 5 Pakistan 3
Defending champions New Zealand made a third-quarter
surge to beat Pakistan 5-3 in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh.
The New Zealand goals were scored by Stephen Jenness (11th), Simon Child (19th), Nic Woods (39th, 42nd), Kane Russell (43rd), Pakistan got their goals off Arslan Qadir (8th, 52nd) and Irfan Junior (23rd).
Canada won their first match of the tournament when they beat Japan 3-1.
The Canada goals were scored by Mark Pearson (34th), Gabriel Ho-Garcia
(35th) and Scott Tupper (45th).
The Japan consolation was scored by Hiroki Sakamoto in the 42nd minute.
surge to beat Pakistan 5-3 in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh.
The New Zealand goals were scored by Stephen Jenness (11th), Simon Child (19th), Nic Woods (39th, 42nd), Kane Russell (43rd), Pakistan got their goals off Arslan Qadir (8th, 52nd) and Irfan Junior (23rd).
Canada won their first match of the tournament when they beat Japan 3-1.
The Canada goals were scored by Mark Pearson (34th), Gabriel Ho-Garcia
(35th) and Scott Tupper (45th).
The Japan consolation was scored by Hiroki Sakamoto in the 42nd minute.
CANADA 3 JAPAN 1
AZLAN SHAH CUP IPOH
CANADA; PEARSON Mark (34th), HO-GARCIA Gabriel (35th), TUPPER Scott (C) (45th).
JAPAN; SAKAMOTO Hiroki (C) (42nd).
CANADA; PEARSON Mark (34th), HO-GARCIA Gabriel (35th), TUPPER Scott (C) (45th).
JAPAN; SAKAMOTO Hiroki (C) (42nd).
The Malaysian syndrome...
By Jugjet Singh
jugjet@nst.com.my
COLUMN
AFTER two matches in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup, Malaysia have scored seven goals but let in six, three of which went in, in the final five minutes of both matches.
During the New Zealand match on Wednesday, Malaysia were leading 3-2 but allowed the Kiwis to steal a point by letting in equaliser in the 55th minute.
And against Japan, the national players took a 4-1 lead but still, let in two penalty corner goals in the 54th and 59th minutes and escaped with full points because the clock ran out on the Japanese.
The tournament is being played on a 15-minutes each four-quarters format, with only 60 minutes of action.
This 'Malaysian' syndrome saw the country lose out on the Rio de Janeiro Olympics and also the Junior World Cup.
In the World League Semi-finals last eight match in Antwerp, Belgium, Malaysia were leading India 2-1 and were on the way to Brazil, but allowed India to score two goals and win 3-2. India double qualified for the Olympics as they also won the Asian Games gold.
And in the Junior Asia Cup in Kuantan, the juniors were leading South Korea 3-1 in the quarter-finals with two minutes to end. But coach Arul Selvaraj's boys collapsed and allowed the Koreans to score two goals and take the match to a penalty shoot-out.
The Koreans won the shoot-out and qualified for the Junior World Cup, Malaysia missed the boat by two minutes.
There are another dozen incidences where Malaysia lost because of lapses during the first five minutes, or the last five minutes -- something which the late Sultan Azlan Shah had reminded the players back in 2005 before sending off the Junior World Cup team to Rotterdam.
"Over the years we have lost out of playing in major tournaments, or medals, because of our lackadaisical attitude in the first five minutes as well as the last five minutes," said Azlan Shah then.
Shukri Mutalib was among the 2005 Junior World Cup players and he is still in action at the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup -- where Malaysia are still making the same mistakes.
Coach Stephen van Huizen has inherited a problem which was prevalent even during his playing days -- and it looks like Malaysia will never make progress in the hockey world if they can't overcome this mental block.
One can expect this syndrome to sneak in during four remaining pool matches in Ipoh as well.
Unpredictable Malaysia
Malaysia were thrashed 7-1, 5-0 and 4-0 in the Tests, about three weeks ago, where Reid saw 'some youth with some potential and skills'.
"After watching them play New Zealand (3-3) and Japan (4-3), I notice this team is playing totally different from the one we played in the recent Test matches.
"In Ipoh they are more organised, committed, and play with zest," said Reid.
The Australian coach attributed the change to home fans, who seem to push them to the limit.
"We always relish playing in the Azlan Shah Cup, especially against Malaysia, because the packed stadium, drums and vuvuzela noise seems to spur the hosts.
"Australia also need to get adjusted to these type of cheering as we will soon be playing in the Olympics, which i expect to be watched by capacity crowds as well," said Reid.
Last year, Australia could only beat Malaysia 3-2 in the pool match, with the winner coming in the 59th minute.
National coach Stephen van Huizen said: "One can never prepare for a match against Australia as even though the team closes almost all holes, they have a knack of finding the smallest of cracks to score.
"Having said that, we have played some good Test matches against them recently, and we hope to give them a good fight."
And what makes the Australians, favourite to play in the final of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics so special?
"Culture. Its an inbuilt thing from our previous players who just refused to be beaten and this attitude has been passed down to the present team.
"Also, there are 30 other players who are capable of replacing me back home waiting for their break, and so, I'm not about to give it to them. This keeps all of us on our toes every minute of every match," said Australian skipper Mark Knowles.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 2 1 1 0 7 6 4
AUSTRALIA 1 1 0 0 5 1 3
PAKISTAN 1 1 0 0 3 1 3
INDIA 2 1 0 1 3 6 3
N ZEALAND 2 0 2 0 4 4 2
CANADA 2 0 1 1 2 4 1
JAPAN 2 0 0 2 4 6 0
April 8: REST DAY.
April 9: Japan v Canada (4pm), New Zealand v Pakistan (6pm), Malaysia v Australia (8.35pm).
April 10: Japan v New Zealand (4pm), Australia v Pakistan (6pm), Canada v India (8.35pm).
Thursday, April 7, 2016
Malaysia 4 Japan 3.. almost blew it
MALAYSIA spiraled to the top of the Azlan Shah Cup standings when they beat Japan 4-3 in Ipoh yesterday.
The national players, who held New Zealand 3-3 on Wednesday, were in total control of the match and will remain at the top on four points for the next 48 hours as the tournament takes a break today.
National coach Stephen van Huizen said: "We had a very good start but the last five minutes were not that good. We need to close up the game after taking a big lead, instead of fighting till the end."
"If you told me before the start of the tournament that we will be having four points after two matches, it would have looked unlikely. But here we are today and I'm very happy with the way my players committed themselves in two fast paced matches," said van Huizen.
When pointed out that letting in late goals has been Malaysia's biggest problem for decades van Huizen said: "Agreed, and we would have to look into this problem again, to avoid it in Ipoh for a start."
After a day's break, Malaysia take on mighty Australia.
Malaysia started on an aggressive note and were rewarded in the second minute itself when Razie Rahim scored off the first penalty corner.
However, Japan equalsied off their first penalty corner when skipper Hiroki Sakamoto perfected a set-pice. It was just the third minute, but plenty of action was being displayed by both sides.
The national players, urged on by a capacity crowd, pushed foward in numbers and won their second penalty corner in the 11th minute. Razie was on target again with a low drive, and eased some pressure on the back-line.
Penalty corners, Malaysia's strength, provided the third goal when in the 14th minute, Razie's attempt was deflected by goalkeeper Takashi Yoshikawa but Haziq Samsul pounced on the rebound and made it 3-1.
And right after the half-time break, Malaysia won their fifth penalty corner and Razie's flick hit a Japanese defenders' head and the umpire awarded Malaysia a penalty stroke.
Fitri Shaari stepped up to the spot and scored the fourth goal in the 32nd minute.
Shota Yamada made it 4-2 in the 54th minute, and then 4-3 in the 59th minute but Malaysia held on to the three points.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 2 1 1 0 7 6 4
AUSTRALIA 1 1 0 0 5 1 3
PAKISTAN 1 1 0 0 3 1 3
INDIA 2 1 0 1 3 6 3
N ZEALAND 2 0 2 0 4 4 2
CANADA 2 0 1 1 2 4 1
JAPAN 2 0 0 2 4 6 0
RESULTS: Australia 5 India 1, New Zealand 1 Canada 1, Malaysia 4 Japan 3.
April 8: REST DAY.
April 9: Japan v Canada (4pm), New Zealand v Pakistan (6pm), Malaysia v Australia (8.35pm).
The national players, who held New Zealand 3-3 on Wednesday, were in total control of the match and will remain at the top on four points for the next 48 hours as the tournament takes a break today.
National coach Stephen van Huizen said: "We had a very good start but the last five minutes were not that good. We need to close up the game after taking a big lead, instead of fighting till the end."
"If you told me before the start of the tournament that we will be having four points after two matches, it would have looked unlikely. But here we are today and I'm very happy with the way my players committed themselves in two fast paced matches," said van Huizen.
When pointed out that letting in late goals has been Malaysia's biggest problem for decades van Huizen said: "Agreed, and we would have to look into this problem again, to avoid it in Ipoh for a start."
After a day's break, Malaysia take on mighty Australia.
Malaysia started on an aggressive note and were rewarded in the second minute itself when Razie Rahim scored off the first penalty corner.
However, Japan equalsied off their first penalty corner when skipper Hiroki Sakamoto perfected a set-pice. It was just the third minute, but plenty of action was being displayed by both sides.
The national players, urged on by a capacity crowd, pushed foward in numbers and won their second penalty corner in the 11th minute. Razie was on target again with a low drive, and eased some pressure on the back-line.
Penalty corners, Malaysia's strength, provided the third goal when in the 14th minute, Razie's attempt was deflected by goalkeeper Takashi Yoshikawa but Haziq Samsul pounced on the rebound and made it 3-1.
And right after the half-time break, Malaysia won their fifth penalty corner and Razie's flick hit a Japanese defenders' head and the umpire awarded Malaysia a penalty stroke.
Fitri Shaari stepped up to the spot and scored the fourth goal in the 32nd minute.
Shota Yamada made it 4-2 in the 54th minute, and then 4-3 in the 59th minute but Malaysia held on to the three points.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 2 1 1 0 7 6 4
AUSTRALIA 1 1 0 0 5 1 3
PAKISTAN 1 1 0 0 3 1 3
INDIA 2 1 0 1 3 6 3
N ZEALAND 2 0 2 0 4 4 2
CANADA 2 0 1 1 2 4 1
JAPAN 2 0 0 2 4 6 0
RESULTS: Australia 5 India 1, New Zealand 1 Canada 1, Malaysia 4 Japan 3.
April 8: REST DAY.
April 9: Japan v Canada (4pm), New Zealand v Pakistan (6pm), Malaysia v Australia (8.35pm).
Aust 5 India 1; Can 1 NZ 1
AZLAN SHAH CUP IPOH:
World No 1 Australia started their campaign with a blistering 5-1 victory over India.
Australia got their goals off Blake Govers (5th), Jacob Whetton (13th), Eddie Ockenden (20th), Simon Orchard (26th) and Matt Gohdes (53rd).
Rupinder Pal Singh (8th) scored for India.
In another match, Olympic sides Canada and New Zealand played to a 1-1 draw.
Canada took the lead in the 25th minute off Gordon Johnston, but Nic Woods equalised for the Kiwis to share the spoils.
RESULTS: Australia 5 India 1, New Zealand 1 Canada 1, Malaysia x Japan
x.
World No 1 Australia started their campaign with a blistering 5-1 victory over India.
Australia got their goals off Blake Govers (5th), Jacob Whetton (13th), Eddie Ockenden (20th), Simon Orchard (26th) and Matt Gohdes (53rd).
Rupinder Pal Singh (8th) scored for India.
In another match, Olympic sides Canada and New Zealand played to a 1-1 draw.
Canada took the lead in the 25th minute off Gordon Johnston, but Nic Woods equalised for the Kiwis to share the spoils.
RESULTS: Australia 5 India 1, New Zealand 1 Canada 1, Malaysia x Japan
x.
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Malaysia 3 NZ 3
MALAYSIA'S sick-bay trio salvaged a 3-3 draw against New Zealand in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh yesterday.
Skipper Razie Rahim, forwards Firhan Ashaari and Shahril Saabah were fielded in the first-11 even though they were down with high fever for the last three days -- and all three scored a goal each.
Even though the trio had barely recovered, all three played with full zest and Firhan scored a beauty of a goal in the dying seconds of the first quarter for the lead.
In a fast paced 15 minutes, Malaysia matched the Kiwis in speed and ball control and just when the first quarter clock showed 15 seconds to end, the deadlock was broken.
A pass from Meor Azuan found Firhan, whose first attempt was blocked by goalkeeper Kyle Pontifax, but Firhan made sure with a cheeky lift over the towering goalkeeper for the lead.
However, New Zealand got back into the match in the 22nd minute when Nick Wilson weaved past three defenders to slot in the ball past rookie goalkeeper Hafizuddin Othman.
And the score stood until the half-time 10 minute break.
New Zealand took the lead off a similar attack in the 34th minute, and it was Wilson who was on target again.
Skipper Razie gave Malaysia a life-line off only the second penalty corner in the 44th minute, when he drove home a thundering drive to draw level at 2-2.
Malaysia came back from the dead to lead 3-2 when Shahril Saabah scored off a penalty corner attempt in the 48th minute.
However, New Zealand were handed six back-to-back penalty corners and Simon Child scored the equaliser in the 55th minute.
In the opening match Pakistan upset Olympics-bound Canada 3-1 with goals from Muhammad Arslan Qadir (27th, 28th) and Muhammad Arshad (52nd).
The Canada goal was scored by Richard Hildreth (52nd).
India survived an early goal from Kenji Kitazato off a 17th minute penalty corner to edge Japan 2-1.
The India come-back was spurred by Harmanpreet Singh (25th) and skipper Sardar Singh scored the winner in the 32nd minute.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
PAKISTAN 1 1 0 0 3 1 3
INDIA 1 1 0 0 2 1 3
MALAYSIA 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
N ZEALAND 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
JAPAN 1 0 0 1 1 2 0
CANADA 1 0 0 1 1 3 0
AUSTRALIA 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
RESULTS: Pakistan 3 Canada 1, Japan 1 India 2, Malaysia 3 New Zealand 3.
April 7: Australia v India (4pm), New Zealand v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v Japan (8.35pm).
April 8: REST DAY.
April 9: Japan v Canada (4pm), New Zealand v Pakistan (6pm), Malaysia v Australia (8.35pm).
April 10: Japan v New Zealand (4pm), Australia v Pakistan (6pm), Canada v India (8.35pm).
April 11: REST DAY.
April 12: Australia v New Zealand (4pm), Pakistan v India (6pm), Malaysia v Canada (8.35pm).
April 13: New Zealand v India (4pm), Australia v Japan (6pm), Malaysia v Pakistan (8.35pm).
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
Skipper Razie Rahim, forwards Firhan Ashaari and Shahril Saabah were fielded in the first-11 even though they were down with high fever for the last three days -- and all three scored a goal each.
Even though the trio had barely recovered, all three played with full zest and Firhan scored a beauty of a goal in the dying seconds of the first quarter for the lead.
In a fast paced 15 minutes, Malaysia matched the Kiwis in speed and ball control and just when the first quarter clock showed 15 seconds to end, the deadlock was broken.
A pass from Meor Azuan found Firhan, whose first attempt was blocked by goalkeeper Kyle Pontifax, but Firhan made sure with a cheeky lift over the towering goalkeeper for the lead.
However, New Zealand got back into the match in the 22nd minute when Nick Wilson weaved past three defenders to slot in the ball past rookie goalkeeper Hafizuddin Othman.
And the score stood until the half-time 10 minute break.
New Zealand took the lead off a similar attack in the 34th minute, and it was Wilson who was on target again.
Skipper Razie gave Malaysia a life-line off only the second penalty corner in the 44th minute, when he drove home a thundering drive to draw level at 2-2.
Malaysia came back from the dead to lead 3-2 when Shahril Saabah scored off a penalty corner attempt in the 48th minute.
However, New Zealand were handed six back-to-back penalty corners and Simon Child scored the equaliser in the 55th minute.
In the opening match Pakistan upset Olympics-bound Canada 3-1 with goals from Muhammad Arslan Qadir (27th, 28th) and Muhammad Arshad (52nd).
The Canada goal was scored by Richard Hildreth (52nd).
India survived an early goal from Kenji Kitazato off a 17th minute penalty corner to edge Japan 2-1.
The India come-back was spurred by Harmanpreet Singh (25th) and skipper Sardar Singh scored the winner in the 32nd minute.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
PAKISTAN 1 1 0 0 3 1 3
INDIA 1 1 0 0 2 1 3
MALAYSIA 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
N ZEALAND 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
JAPAN 1 0 0 1 1 2 0
CANADA 1 0 0 1 1 3 0
AUSTRALIA 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
RESULTS: Pakistan 3 Canada 1, Japan 1 India 2, Malaysia 3 New Zealand 3.
April 7: Australia v India (4pm), New Zealand v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v Japan (8.35pm).
April 8: REST DAY.
April 9: Japan v Canada (4pm), New Zealand v Pakistan (6pm), Malaysia v Australia (8.35pm).
April 10: Japan v New Zealand (4pm), Australia v Pakistan (6pm), Canada v India (8.35pm).
April 11: REST DAY.
April 12: Australia v New Zealand (4pm), Pakistan v India (6pm), Malaysia v Canada (8.35pm).
April 13: New Zealand v India (4pm), Australia v Japan (6pm), Malaysia v Pakistan (8.35pm).
April 14: REST DAY.
April 15: Japan v Pakistan (4pm), Australia v Canada (6pm), Malaysia v India (8.35pm).
April 16: Classifications and Final.
INDIA 2 JAPAN 1
AZLAN SHAH CUP 2016: IPOH
INDIA; Harmanpreet Singh (25th), Sardar Singh (32nd).
JAPAN: Kenji Kitazato (17th).
INDIA; Harmanpreet Singh (25th), Sardar Singh (32nd).
JAPAN: Kenji Kitazato (17th).
PAKISTAN 3 CANADA 1
AZLAN SHAH CUP 2016: IPOH
PAKISTAN: Muhammad Arslan Qadir (27th, 28th), Muhammad Arshad (52nd).
CANADA: Richard Hildreth(52nd).
PAKISTAN: Muhammad Arslan Qadir (27th, 28th), Muhammad Arshad (52nd).
CANADA: Richard Hildreth(52nd).
Saturday, April 2, 2016
Former Malaysian greats give back...
Batch of 1990-1993 with their coaches, manager and team doctor.
FORMER national players from the batch of 1990-1993 held a coaching clinic and then a friendly match with University Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) Under-16 development players at the Kuala Lumpur HA Stadium Saturday.
And on the stands watching them were their former team manager Tan Sri Nordin Hassan, chief coach C. Paramalingam, assistant coach Malek Kiew, goalkeeper coach Khairuddin Zainal and team Doctor Datuk Dr Ramlan Aziz.
Khairuddin is best remembered for keeping goal when Malaysia finished fourth in the 1975 Kuala Lumpur World Cup -- Malaysia's best achievement ever.
UniKL development coach R. Vivekanandan and goalkeepers coach M. Nadarajan organised the fun-filled event for children as young as five-years-old.
"This coaching clinic as well as match was held with former Malaysian national players, some of whom played in the Olympics and World Cups, to inspire our youth to reach for the sky," said Vivekanandan.
Some household names from the batch who turned up were three-time Olympian Mirnawan Nawawi, two-time Olympian Maninderjit Singh, Dr Calvin Fernandez , Suhairi Saidi, Lam Mun Fatt and Arul Selvaraj.
Maninderjit said: "We had coaches who literally made us sweat blood but in the end, we had the pleasure of representing the country at the highest level."
Two which Khairuddin replied: "It is better to cry during hard training, that cry after losing a match. Those who train really hard, are the ones who achieve something in their lives."
The free UniKL coaching clinic for players and goalkeepers is held every Sunday at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Friday, April 1, 2016
Azlan Shah Cup: Kumar and Baljit out...
SELECTED: JOEL SAMUEL VAN HUIZEN
NATIONAL coach Stephen van Huizen named his final 18 for the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh on April 6-16, and the mission is not to finish seventh in the 25th Edition.
Malaysia finished at the bottom of the six-team pool in the last edition, and looking at the opponents, it will be another battle to keep afloat in Ipoh.
Missing from the list was No 1 goalkeeper S. Kumar who tore his adductor muscle, around his left groin, while playing in the last Test against Australia in Perth 10 days ago.
Also absent was stalwart defender Baljit Singh.
"Five minutes into the match against Australia i suffered a pull around my left thigh area and later found out it was a tear which needed at least four weeks to recovery to heal.
"It is better I sit out the tournament and allow our two younger goalkeepers to play and go through my recovery programme. I will definitely miss the tournament, but this is not the first time," said Kumar.
In 2014, Kumar suffered a similar tear and it was on his right thigh.
The two goalkeepers selected by Stephen are Hairi Abdul Rahman and Hafizuddin Othman.
"Not having Kumar for the tournament is a big blow as he has been training hard for it and played well in the Australian and New Zealand Tours.
"However, looking at the bright side, I will get to test my other two goalkeepers in this tournament as we prepare to qualify for the World Cup and Olympics -- which are the bigger agenda," said van Huizen.
Malaysia will be playing against defending champions New Zealand, world No 1 Australia, India, Canada, Pakistan and Japan. The first four teams have qualified for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
Van Huizen will also be trying out defender Najib Abu Hassan, midfielder Joel Samuel van Huizen and forward Nik Aiman Rozemi.
"These are the new faces who will be tried out in the tournament while we give some old hands a rest.
"We already know the strength of players like Baljit, and that's why he has been rested while we give others a chance to play. This is a team for the future as we strive to qualify for the 2018 World Cup and the 2020 Olympics," said van Huizen.
MALAYSIA -- Goalkeepers: Hairi Abdul Rahman, Hafizuddin Othman; Defenders: Najib Abu Hassa, Shukri Mutalib, Razie Rahim, Faiz Helmi, Izad Hakimi; Midfielders: Marhan Jalil, Fitri Shaari, Joel Samuel van Huizen, Nabil Fiqri, Meor Azuan; Forwards: Ramadan Rosli, Haziq Samsul, Firhan Ashaari, Nik Aiman Rozemi, Shahril Saabah, Rashid Baharom.
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