CANBERRA, April 16: Malaysia stunned South Africa with three first half goals to win 3-2 in men's 4-Nations Challenge field hockey tournament on Friday.
South Africa surprised everyone by resting its fit and uninjured captain Craig Jackson and their defensive play suffered in his absence with Malaysia scoring three goals in first half from set plays.
Malaysia struck early with Boon Huat Chua scoring a deflection goal from Kuhan Shanmunganathan's free hit just outside top of circle in second minute of play. Kuhan set up conversion of two of Malaysian first half goals, spinning at battery and laying off possession to Amin Rahim who flicked low and behind Dave Staniforth for second goal.
Du Plessis faced a penalty corner on resumption with Fairuz Ramli tipping in at right post, Kuhan's flick to have Malaysia ahead 3-0 at break. South Africa's pressure resulted in nine circle penetrations and seven shots on goal in second half, after gaining only two circle penetrations in first. The pressure paid off with a goal to Gregg Clark.
South Africa scored from second penalty corner with three minutes before final hooter with Denzil Dolley getting a deflection on drive from battery but there was not enough time for them to make equaliser. -PPI
