Malaysian junior hockey squad has to continue improving their performance as they face a daunting task ahead of the 8th Asian Hockey Junior Championship in Kuantan next month, following their Johor Sultan Cup outing.
Najib Hassan’s side finished third, beating Argentina 3-2 in the third-fourth play-offs, surpassing their previous fifth place achievement at the competition.
According to Malaysia Hockey Confederation (MHC)’s technical director, Terry Walsh, the Under-21 team third place achievement is something to be proud off.
“I feel that the quality of our game has improved. It would be a valuable experience for us to be playing teams like Britain, Australia and Argentina next.”
“So I feel this is a good tournament,” Walsh told Berita Harian.
Walsh, who has been behind the development of both senior and junior hockey squad, also stated that the junior side has been tested well from all aspects in the Johor Sultan Cup, as they prepare for the Asian Championships.
The competition, which is held from 14 to 22 November, will be a stepping stone for young players to qualify for the Junior Hockey World Cup, in India next year.
“I know they have a good chance to progress well in this tournament but there are few aspects that still need to be fixed.”
“I expect a much better, organized team in Kuantan,” he added.
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