Malaysia begins her quest for glory at the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup up with a 4-1 win against Ireland.
Skipper Razie Rahim scored the opening goal with Tengku Tajuddin adding the second a few minutes later in the first quarter. Despite Ireland’s tight defence, the Speedy Tigers managed to control the game with their swift and nippy moves. In the second quarter, Razie Rahim scored the host’s third goal via a penalty corner.
The Tigers kept the pressure and sealed the match with the fourth goal through a penalty corner by Razie Rahim. In a swift counter attack, Kirk Shimmins sounded the board for Ireland’s solitary goaL
Malaysia’s captain, Razie Rahim was named the Man of the Match.
Coach Stephen Van Huizen was pleased with the Speedy Tigers’ performance,
“Razie’s first goal helped to reduce the tension in the players. His stellar performance is a huge morale booster for our upcoming match against the Aussies. We’ll give our best,” said Stephen.
Aiman Nik Rozemi was rushed to the hospital after what could be a sprained ankle and, according to Stephen, Aiman might miss the tournament.
The first game of the 27th Sultan Azlah Shah Cup was between Argentina and India. The South Americans upset the Indians 3-2. All three Argentinian goals were scored by their star player, Gonzalo Peillat who currently plays for Terengganu in the ongoing Malaysia Hockey League. India’s two goals were scored by Amit Rohadas.
Australia, the current top-ranked nation in the World Hockey Federation (FIH), won its opening match against England, 4-1. Inclement weather didn’t hamper the Kookaburras from scoring through Dylan Wotherspoon, Blake Glovers, Aaron Kleinschmidt and Lachlan Sharp. England’s only goal was scored by Phil Roper.
The schedule for Sunday, March 4: India vs England at 4pm. Ireland vs Argentina at 6pm and Malaysia’s Speedy Tigers take on the Kookaburras at 8pm.
