Beng Hai gets clearer picture after defeat

By T.N. Alagesh

COACH Tai Beng Hai now has a clearer picture of his final 18-man squad
for the Asia Cup after watching Malaysia lose 2-0 to Pakistan in their
friendly match at Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium in Kuantan yesterday.
  "All the players including those who skipped the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
in Ipoh last month due to injuries played against Pakistan.
  "I believe the national selectors can now make their picks after this
match.'
  Beng Hai was quick to admit that his players did not execute their
plans and penalty-corner variations well yesterday.
  The coach said he was satisfied with the scoreline as he had managed to
give all his 28 players a chance to play in the match.
  "We did create several scoring chances especially the four penalty
corners but decided to take the direct hit at the goal mouth instead of
trying out variations."
  The match also saw retired midfielder Jiwa Mohan making a comeback
after he was recalled to join the national team to boost their chances in
the Asia Cup.
  Despite having just arrived in Kuantan yesterday afternoon, Jiwa
started the match and his presence on the pitch was immediately felt when
he fed a few long balls to the forwards led by Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin.
  Beng Hai said it was too early to judge Jiwa as he was still tired
after the long journey but is confident that the player will regain his
form after a few training sessions with the team here.