WHEN Engku Malek slammed home the second goal for Malaysia in the 4-1 win against Egypt on Monday, his wife was in labour expecting their second child.
The gutsy defender, who made his mark in the 2005 Junior World Cup,will be in the line-up against India today.
"Engku Malek is in Kuala Lumpur now with his family, but he told me he wants to play against India and will be back by tonight (last night)," said Malaysian team manager George Koshy.
The line-up against India will be the same as in the previous two matches, as none of the players picked up injuries.
"This tournament has shown that the players are ready fitness-wise, as when we substitute, there is no drop in standard of play, and there is a smooth transition as everyone on the team is about the same level now."
George, president of the Kuala Lumpur HA and the man behind the success of Ernst & Young in the Malaysia Hockey League, however, feels there are still lapses which need to be looked into.
"The team have shown consistency for long periods, but momentary lapses have let in three soft goals (two against Pakistan and one against Egypt).
"This is the area which needs urgent attention, as we prepare for the Asia Cup," said George.
India will be banking on drag-flicker Sandip Singh to do the damage, but Malaysia have fast first runners, and the feeling is that the national team will qualify for the final with a match against New Zealand in hand.
