APAC 2010 Journal: Day 6 - 6th February 2010

After yesterday’s spirited display against the Japs, team Malaysia was in high confidence of causing an upset against the Koreans today. It was a must-win game for us if we were going to stand any chance to qualify for the World Cup. Our game was scheduled at 4pm, with the match of the tournament Japan versus Singapore following just after our match.

With no option but to win, team Malaysia was fired up for this encounter. The first period was a close match up with the Koreans taking a 2-0 lead. It was tough luck for the Malaysians after every player ran and chased down every ball. The Koreans didn’t create many clear cut chances but were lucky to score 2 due to a split second lost of concentration by the Malaysian players. This was basically the story for team Malaysia through out this APAC, being unable to focus 100% for the whole 60 minutes.

Meeting the Koreans.

Defending the best we could.

Attack!

The 2nd period was again a close fight between the both teams with the Koreans winning the period 2-1 and 4-1 overall. Ter min scored a wonderful goal for team Malaysia after we were down 0-4, which greatly lifted the team’s spirit.

With our spirits high, Ter min scored again early in the 3rd period to put the score line at 2-4. Team Malaysia were firing from all cylinders but were unable to beat the disciplined Korean defense and the ever dependable Korean goalie. Again, as usual, a lapse of concentration from the Malaysian players mid way through the game allowed the Koreans to score a few quick goals and they were up b 8-2. With time running out, team Malaysia pushed up with full court pressure, but was further punished with 2 more counter attack goals.

The never-say-die Koreans.

Discussing with Termin what to do.

Team Malaysia.

Full time score: Malaysia 2-10 Korea.

From my point of view, team Malaysia wasn’t that much inferior to the Koreans skill-wise. However, our lack of stamina and inability to concentrate for the full 60 minutes caused us the match. A lack of experience in high level competitions and a lack of mental toughness also caused us this defeat. Everyone played with all their hearts, but we just weren’t good enough today. Already mathematically unable to qualify for the World Cup, hopefully we will be able to give the Aussies a better fight on day 4 for Pride.

The Japan versus Singapore match lived up to its billing as the match of the tournament with both teams battling for top spot. Although the match ended in a 2-2 draw, it was a fair result as both teams were equally good. Based on their level of play, team Malaysia will need to improve more if we are going to stand any chance of qualifying for the next World Cup qualifiers.

By Low Kien Teck, #12

(Note: Photos taken by Serena Tiong)