Tigers can roar on without Marhan, says Razie

PETALING JAYA: The combo of Razie Rahim and Marhan Jalil at the heart of the defence have served the Speedy Tigers well in the past.

But without Marhan, who has been forced out because of a foot injury, can the national hockey team remain strong?

Razie believes so, as he says that the current squad have the character to fill the void temporarily left by Marhan.

The 32-year-old Marhan missed Malaysia’s successful Sultan Azlan Shah Cup campaign two weeks ago in Ipoh and will also have to skip the Nations Cup in Potchefstroom, South Africa, from Nov 28-Dec 4.

Razie, a veteran of 301 international caps, is hoping for the team to perform with the same confidence they exuded at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, where they overcame South Korea 3-2 to win the crown for the first time in 39 years.

“Marhan comes with a lot of experience and obviously, we will miss his services but I must add that the team, especially the younger players, have improved a lot,” said the 35-year-old Razie.

“They proved it in Ipoh and I believe we can trust them do the job again in South Africa.’’

He pointed out that Najmi Farial Jazlan had played in central defence with him during the Azlan Shah Cup and there were other defenders with equal talents like Faiz Helmi Jalil, Aminuddin Zain and Zulpidaus Mizun.

“I’ve forged a good understanding with Najmi. Faiz can play in midfield or defence while Aminuddin, Zulpidaus and several others can operate in different positions.”

Razie is also happy that Faizal Saari has returned after ending his stint in the Dutch League.

“Faizal’s presence will definitely add strength. He is equally good as a midfielder and forward,” he said.

“This is the beauty of the team as the players can play in different positions and are always willing to adapt if it is required.”

Having established himself as a penalty corner specialist for the last few years, Razie’s direct flicks will be crucial in deciding Malaysia’s destiny in South Africa.

“Converting penalty corners is my responsibility and I need to keep doing that consistently,” said Razie, who has 131 international goals to his credit and is the top scorer at the Asian Cup (13 goals) and Azlan Shah Cup (six goals).

“I believe we can carry the momentum and produce another fine performance at the Nations Cup.”

Malaysia are in Group B with South Korea, Japan and Canada while Group A consists of France, Ireland, Pakistan and South Africa.