Green Machine Undone By Malaysia In Opening Day Of Azlan Shah

It wasn’t the ideal start to the Azlan Shah Cup as the Green Machine’s opening fixture was delayed by 30 minutes due to torrential rain, accompanied by 30-degree heat and humidity. Ireland picked up their first penalty corner of the game inside the opening 15 seconds but Shane O’Donoghue’s shot was quickly run down and blocked by Marham Jalil. Razie Rahim’s first goal of the day was a sight to behold as the captain poached the ball to set up a 2-on-2 and send a reverse shot into the backboard as Jamie Carr came charging at him. 5 minutes later and Malaysia had doubled their lead courtesy of Tengku Tajuddin. Aiman Nik Rozemi skipped into the crowded circle along the baseline and pulled the pass back for Tajuddin to bundle the ball in at the back post. Eugene Magee showcase superb 3D skills to get past 4 defenders and into the circle but was crowded out and eventually dispossessed. Carr was in fine form all day and made a phenomenal high save with his stick, followed by 2 further saves in quick succession. But Rahim made it 3-0 with a powerful PC drag to give Malaysia a comfortable lead going into half time.

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