DON’T PANIC, SAYS SUBAHAN

MHC president is confident Malaysia will bounce back in Olympic qualifiers

MALAYSIAN Hockey Confederation president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal insists there is no need to push the panic button just yet over the national team’s failure to meet their target at the ongoing World Cup in Bhubaneswar, India.

Malaysia finished fourth in Group D and were eliminated from the playoff stage together with Spain, South Africa and Ireland.

“When the groupings were released, we already knew it was going to be tough to make inroads against the Netherlands and Germany.

“Even though we finished 15th out of 16 teams, I saw positives in the team, and I am confident we will perform in the Olympic qualifiers.

“I agree that they shouldn’t have lost 7-0 to the Netherlands. The players should have fought harder for every ball.

“But the team progressed against Pakistan and they were unlucky not to score more goals.

“The match against Germany saw our players put up a gallant fight after being 3-0 down, and were unlucky not to have scored their last penalty corner for the equaliser.

“I believe the champions in India will come from Malaysia’s group,” said Subahan.

So what is next for the Malaysia?

“I have spoken with (national coach) Roelant Oltmans and we plan to send the team to Europe next year before the Olympic Qualifier (in Kuala Lumpur) in April.

“We plan to play the Dutch and Germany and hope the experiences will make our team stronger as we might face tough European sides in the second Olympic Qualifier in November,” said Subahan.

The MHC and their technical director Terry Walsh received brickbats as well as suggestions on how to improve their players before the Olympic Qualifier.

“I don’t know why people are worried. I am confident we will eventually play good hockey and qualify for the 2020 Olympics. Just give Oltmans more time.

“It is easy for some to comment but as far as I can remember those who commented also did not win major international medals as well, and they too failed many times during their playing days.

“So let’s not forget that and give our boys the support they need. Be fair to them and we will make it in April.

“And like I have said many times before, if we do not qualify for the Olympics, I will take full responsibility and resign,” he added.