Malaysian Hockey Team Put Up Spirited Display In Perth

Neville D'Cruz

MELBOURNE, July 22 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian national hockey team, on a training-cum playing visit to Perth, has impressed Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

Ahmad Shabery who watched the national squad beat Australian club champion West Australian Thunder Stick 3-1 in a practice match in Perth, Wednesday, was impressed with their performance.

"Our team has improved a lot and they played really well," said Shabery by phone from Perth. "They showed confidence and played a spirited, attacking game."

Malaysia who conceded an early goal, fought back to equalise and went on to win the thrilling match 3-1.

Shabery said the visit to Perth was to prepare the Malaysian team for the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi and the Olympic Games in London.

"We want to give our team good exposure and develop their confidence," he said.

Malaysia will play several games in Perth before returning to Malaysia.

-- BERNAMA

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