Nasihin: Over confidence nearly cost us the win

INCHEON: Over confidence seems to be a bane for the Malaysian hockey teams.

Like the men’s team, the women’s squad made life difficult for themselves in a Group A match against Thailand at the Seonhak Hockey Stadium yesterday.

Malaysia led comfortably by 2-0 and then let their guard down for Thailand to pull a goal back in the 53rd minute through a field goal by Tikhampon Sakunpithak.

Luckily for the Malaysians, they survived seven minutes of intense pressure from the Thais to emerge 2-1 winners for their first win in the group.

Earlier, Malaysia took the lead in the 24th minute through Siti Noor Amarina. Three minutes later, Noraini Abdul Rashid doubled the tally, also through a penalty corner.
Three months ago, Malaysia had beaten Thailand 8-0 in the World Hockey League first round in Singapore.

Mohamed Nasihin Nubli was one relieved coach after the win.

“We really needed the three points today or our semi-final hopes would have vanished.

“The Thais made it difficult for us because our players took their foot off the pedal after the second goal. This is always dangerous,” he said.

China edged 2-1 yesterday for their second straight win to qualify for the semi-finals. On Monday, they edged Malaysia 1-0.

India, who whipped Thailand 3-1 in their opening match, are second with a better goal difference than Malaysia. India just need a draw against Malaysia tomorrow to reach the last four.

“It is a must-win match against India. They are a very good and skillful side. We have not beaten them before. But we can always try as we have nothing to lose,” said Nasihin.