Malaysia thump China 5-1 in Asian Champions Trophy

Najmi Farizal Jazlan (second from left) scores through a penalty corner against China in the Asian Champions Trophy on Aug 4. Malaysia won 5-1. – AHF/Hockey India

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia notched their second consecutive win in the Asian Champions Trophy hockey event when they defeated China 5-1 in Chennai on Friday (Aug 4).

China surprised by scoring first through a third-minute penalty corner by Chen Chongcong but it was the Speedy Tigers' show after that.

Faizal Saari converted a 10th-minute penalty corner to draw level while Azrai Aizad Abu Kamal scored through another penalty corner in the 14th minute to give the Tigers a 2-1 lead.

Malaysia had to wait until the 44th minute to increase the lead as Azrai scored his second when he slotted home a field goal.

Firhan Ashaari scored another field goal in the 48th minute to make it 4-1 and Malaysia completed their rout as Najmi Farizal Jazlan converted a penalty corner in the 56th minute.

Azrai's double strike earned him the man of the match award.

Malaysia will have a rest on Saturday before returning to action on Sunday where they will meet hosts India.

In another round robin match on Friday, South Korea played to a 1-1 draw with Pakistan.