MALAYSIA played friendlies, but Japan took both the matches seriously to thrash Malaysia 5-1 and then 3-1 in Kakamigahara.
Coach Stephen van Huizen's men are on a Tour of six matches, four of which are friendlies, while two are Test matches.
On Wednesday, his charges were down 5-0 before the consolation was scored Norhizzat Sumantri. And yesterday, Harvinder Singh gave Malaysia the lead off a 12th minute penalty corner rebound, but Japan won the match with ease in a seven minute blitz -- 55th, 58th and 62nd minutes.
The two Test matches will be played on Saturday and Sunday, followed by two more friendlies.
Van Huizen attributed the defeats to poor marking and decision-making, particularly during crucial moments.
"Overall, we played much better in the second friendly. But the results clearly show that without our key players, we struggle. I believe this is an opportunity for several of the younger players to step up and understand the demands of international hockey. While the enthusiasm is good, we find ourselves wanting in many areas.
The coach went to Japan withour several key players who are nursing injuries, had examinations and also joined the Police Force.
Goalkeeper S. Kumar is still nursing his thigh injury,
Faiz Helmi and Fitri Saari have examinations and Shahril Saabah has family commitments.
National skipper Razie Rahim and Nabil Fiqri are back with Police training after getting a brief release to play in the Razak Cup.
"Positively, there is progress in our game. We will prepare as best as we can for the upcoming Test matches. We need to up the level significantly to get a result. The games have provided me and the coaching staff with sufficient insight about the players and our squad entirely", he added.
Japan are preparing a team to host the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, while van Huizen and his men will be attempting to qualify for the Olympics, which Malaysia last played in 2000 Sydney.
