PETALING JAYA: The national under-18 hockey team defended the Mirnawan Cup title after a last-minute goal sealed their 4-3 win against Japan at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Sunday.
Malaysia wrapped up a stellar run in the tournament as they stayed unbeaten throughout, with five wins and one draw as head coach Nor Aqmal Abdul Ghaffar praised his boys for their performance.
"The team’s performance improved after each game, and we saw that from the group stage until the final," said Aqmal.
During the match, Japan took the lead first in the 11th minute, but Malaysia quickly bounced back thanks to defender Safwan Salihe, who converted two penalty corners in the 17th and 33rd minutes to get ahead.
Amandeep Singh then made it 3-1 in the 36th minute, but Japan launched their counter and tied things with two goals in the 41st and 58th minutes.
With things looking to be heading for the penalty shootout, Safwan stepped up once again and sealed his hattrick by converting another penalty corner with seconds left on the clock.
Aqmal said Japan had the speed to claw their way back, but the national youngsters held their own when it mattered most.
"Japan are fast, but our players controlled the pressure and defended well. Even though we had two yellow cards, the team did well.
"Many young players in the team have potential. We will continue this momentum and I believe the next generation can go far," he said.
Meanwhile in the girls’ category, the Malaysia fell short of the title after they were defeated by Japan 1-4 in the final.
