Speedy Tigers Need To Reduce Mistakes To Achieve Positive Results - Sarjit

IPOH, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- National men's hockey head coach Sarjit Singh said the Speedy Tigers need to reduce simple mistakes in matches to achieve positive results at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup (SASC) this time.

Sarjit said that the defence aspect is the main focus that needs improvement to enhance the team's performance before the match against Belgium tomorrow.

"In the match against India today, the players performed well and had a chance to win, but the final result did not favour us due to the mistakes committed. In my opinion, the midfield and attack positions performed well; it is only the defensive line that needs improvement for the next match," he said.

Earlier, Malaysia lost 3-4 to India, dashing the national players' hope of securing a second consecutive victory in the match held at the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Stadium here tonight.

Malaysia's goals were scored by Faizal Shaari (12'), Fitri Shaari (36'), and Marhan Jalil (45'), while India responded through Karthi Selvam (7'), Sukhjeet Singh (21'), Amit Rohidas (39'), and Sanjay (53').

Meanwhile, India's head coach Craig Fulton said that although they managed to secure the victory, some good chances created by his players failed to be converted into additional goals.

“I thought we created some really good chances that we should have and could have finished but didn't. But at least that's positive from yesterday to today,” he said.

In addition, Craig also praised his team's defensive line for being disciplined and successfully thwarting many opportunities created by the Malaysian players.

“They tested everything, playing a man down, especially in the last seven minutes. They took their keeper off and we were back to 11 (players) which helped. But they still had big chances in that period. I'm glad we got the results and based it on good defence,” he said.

-- BERNAMA