Ireland played their second test match against Malaysia coming out the wrong end of a 4-2 scoreline.
Ireland opened with the first real chance with a penalty corner in the 6th minute but Brian Doherty's drag attempt was saved by Kairuil who had an outstanding game for Malaysia in goals this evening. Two minutes later Malaysia had a set piece of their own but their drag went wide of the mark.
Malaysia took the lead in the 29th minute when Faizal scored after a intricate set piece which incorporated two dummy drag flicks. They were given a great chance to double their lead when a turnover lead to an opportunity to score from open play but great chasing back from Brian Doherty saw the ball go over the end line.
Ireland equalised in the 27th minute with their second penalty corner when Giles fired home the rebound. Just six minutes from half time Malaysia went ahead when they demonstrated their pace and skill with a 2 on 1 against Walker in goals finishing high into the net with class.
Half time Ireland 1 - 2 Malaysia
Just six minutes into the second half Malaysia were down to ten men when Nabil Figri saw red for an off the ball incident. Ireland secured yet another penalty corner and Brennan's rebound goal which was initially awarded was disputed and turned into another penalty corner which didn't come off.
Malaysia then found themselves down to 9 in the 53rd minute and Ireland nearly took advantage after a great ball through from Brennan which saw a number of attempts on goal but superb keeping kept Ireland at bay until a Penalty stroke was awarded, which Alan Sothern duly slotted home in the 53rd to make it 2 - 2.
With 13 left on the clock the visitors went ahead once again when some great open play divided the Irish defence to give Ahmad Tajudin the chance for an easy tap in and 3 - 2 lead. Just three minutes later Malaysia copper fastened their victory when Azlan got in position to fire a cracking shot home from the top of the d and a four two lead.
Ireland fought hard for the remaining minutes seeking to pull back the scoreline stepping up the pace Ireland's goal attempts though were kept out once again with great keeping from the Malaysian keeper.
Commenting after the match coach Paul Revington was obviously disappointed. “Firstly I would like to complement Malaysia on their performance with ten men, we made it easier for them in the sense that we didn’t value possession with a man up and we didn’t value defence and against a good side like Malaysia whether they have ten or eleven men on the field this is not something we can afford to do.
Right from the outset this has been a challenge for us and we will view game three as a new challenge on Saturday.”
Ireland-Malaysia 2-4 (1-2)
Goals Ireland: Alan Giles (PC), Alan Sothern (PS)
Goals Malaysia: Faizal; Izwan; Ahmad Tajudin; Azlan
Source: Irish Hockey
