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HOCKEY: Hard lesson from Azerbaijan

MAKING THE DIFFERENCE: Naturalised players play key role in thrashing of Malaysia

MALAYSIA were hammered 4-0 by Azerbaijan in their opening Women's Olympic Qualifying match in Kakamigahara, Japan yesterday.

Azerbaijan, with several Korean-born players in their team, led 2-0 at half-time through a Yulia Muradi brace from penalty corners in the 17th and 31st minutes.

Myung Soon Mammadova (45th) and Yuliya Muradi (56th) completed the rout.
Goalkeeper Farah Ayuni Yahya saved a penalty stroke to save Malaysia further embarrassment.
The team managed to penetrate the Azerbaijan semi-circle on occasions but failed to convert their chances, including from four penalty corners.

"We were attacking quite a bit, especially in the first-half but luck was not on our side. The score does not reflect how we played," said coach Nasihin Nubli when contacted yesterday.

"My players tried hard to prove something but their goalkeeper (Farida Mammadova) was on form.
"Furthermore, their naturalised players made a huge difference as they were the ones controlling play."
Malaysia must beat favourites Japan, who thrashed Austria 7-0, tomorrow to stay in the hunt for a spot at the London Olympics.

"We were beaten 4-2 by Japan in our last meeting at the 2010 Asian Games, but I believe we have a chance if we play to strategy on Friday," Nasihin added.

In another match, Belarus beat Chile 3-1.

Results: Japan 7 Austria 0, Belarus 3 Chile 1, Azerbaijan 4 Malaysia 0.

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