It was raining goals at the Gladbach Hockey and Tennis Club as the Speedy Tigers left behind the disappointment of the big-margin defeat against Germany’s national team to produce an all-round inspiring performance en route to a 9-2 win over Monchengladbach Hockey Club.
The Malaysians, who had an off day against the World No 5-ranked Germans last Sunday following the defensive lapse, were a visibly transformed side today stepping on the pedal from the first minute against Monchengladbach HC – which boasts several current and former internationals featuring for the club in the domestic league.
Youngster Azimuddin Syakir Kamaruddin, 19, started the goal rush in the third minute from a penalty corner rebound. Faizal Saari netted four field goals (35th, 42nd, 46th and 59th minutes) while Shello Silverius (32nd), Norsyafiq Sumantri (40th), Alfarico Lance Liau Jr (52nd) and Mohd Fitri Saari (57th) contributed one each.
The German club led 2-1 at half time with penalty corner goals in the 28th and 29th minutes. But as the match progressed Monchengladbach Hockey Club went from strong contenders to almost clueless for answers as to where they went wrong at the end of regulation time.
With goals flowing in every quarter of the match, the 9-2 win was the best indicator of the battle on the field that saw the Speedy Tigers’ dominance.
National team head coach Sarjit Singh said the players did a lot of soul-searching after the 1-10 defeat against the German national team in the test match. It was a quick turnaround and credit must be given where it is due.
“The team gave a much better performance today. They coordinated the attacking structure as one unit. We bounced back remarkably after the big defeat in the test match against Germany last Sunday,” said Sarjit.
“Both matches in Germany were important and served well in the team’s overall long-term preparation for the 2026 Asian Games. This tour is to expose the players to as many top-level matches against European teams,” he added.
The positive notes, said Sarjit, were the way the Malaysians played in all high intensity matches.
“Putting aside the 1-10 defeat, the players have the character and positive attitude to match the Germans. We are aware that such high intensity matches will surely benefit the national team as we progress further.”
“While the win against Monchengladbach Hockey Club was necessary and came at the right moment, it should be noted that it is not easy for a team to bounce back quickly after losing by a big margin two days earlier. This shows character and discipline in the players. They did not lose hope,” stressed Sarjit.
The Speedy Tigers next destination will be the Netherlands.
The team will travel today to Arnhem, a city in the eastern part of the Netherlands. They will play friendly matches against the host nation on July 12, and the visiting India team on July 14.
“Our next two matches against the Netherlands and India are equally tough. It is a great opportunity to play against the Dutch and the visiting Indian team on this tour.”
“I want players to take advantage of this experience and improve on their performance. It involves all aspects of physical fitness, mental strength and tactical play. There must be a clear understanding of the team’s playing structure,” he said.
