Arul’s men take revenge against Irish

TWO players earned their first senior caps as Malaysia beat Ireland 4-2 in an international Test match at Lisnagarvey on Wednesday.

Malaysia, who lost the first Test 3-2, will now head to Cardiff to play Wales in two Tests which carry world ranking points.

Razie Rahim scored two goals off three penalty corners in the 11th and 12th minutes, while Azrai Aizad (15th) and Najib Hassan (22nd) completed the mission.

Ireland had the best of the second half, winning a string of penalty corners in the third and fourth quarters, but failed to bounce back.

Zulpidaus Mizun and Shello Silverius were the two rookies who earned their maiden international caps in the Ireland match.

National men’s senior coach Arul Selvaraj believes that the Wales Tests will provide more cheer for Malaysian fans.

Malaysia’s first Wales match is tomorrow.

“Two players earned their international caps in the Ireland Tests, and this is good for the country in the long run. The win was motivating as they had to claw back from defeat to earn a hard-fought victory.

“Malaysia received only three penalty corners and Razie tucked in two, while the other two goals were from field attempts, indicating the versatility of the team.

“Ireland had a fair share of penalty corners, but our runners defended well. We will head to Cardiff for two more Test matches against Wales, and I believe my players will show the same determination to continue a winning momentum," said Arul.

Meanwhile, the national Under-21 squad suffered a 2-0 loss to England Under-21 yesterday, after losing 3-2 in their first encounter.

The team, coached by Wallace Tan, are building up towards the India Junior World Cup on Nov 24-Dec 5.