KUALA LUMPUR − The National Women’s Special Project Squad lost 1-2 to Ireland in the ninth to 12th position classification matches in the Women’s Junior Hockey World Cup in Potchefstroom, South Africa, yesterday.
Caoimhe Perdue’s penalty corner a few seconds before the end of the match dashed the national team’s hopes of at least dragging the game to the penalty shootout.
Ireland had earlier opened scoring in the 14th minute with a field goal by Rachel Kelly before national striker Nuramirah Shakirah Zulkifli equalised through a field goal in the 47th minute.
The Malaysian squad coached by Nasihin Nubli Ibrahim will face Zimbabwe tomorrow in the 11th and 12th place classification match.
“The players gave a great fight against the Irish team until the final whistle and I am proud of what my players have shown.
“Now we shift our focus and preparation for the next match. The players need to bounce back and be ready to meet Zimbabwe in the 11th and 12th-placing match,” Nasihin told the post-match press conference.
Earlier, Malaysia, who were eliminated from the group stage after recording a draw and two losses, had secured their maiden victory in the tournament by beating Uruguay 2-1 in the ninth to 16th place play-offs. – Bernama, April 10, 2022
