Belgium crush Malaysia 9-1 in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, moving closer to the final as the Speedy Tigers drop to fifth despite Faizal Saari’s lone goal.
BELGIUM thrashed Malaysia 9-1 in the 31st edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Invitational Hockey Tournament at the Azlan Shah Stadium yesterday.
The team last participated in the competition in 2008, finishing in sixth place at the time.
Belgium now moves a step closer to qualifying for Sunday’s final. Malaysia slipped to fifth place with four points in the standings.
The visitors took the lead as early as the eighth minute through Tom Boon off a penalty corner.
Ten minutes later, Thomas Crols made it 2-0 from a field goal before Malaysia reduced the deficit after Faizal Saari found the net in the 13th minute.
Speedy Tigers were no match for Belgium, who moved swiftly.
Two minutes later, Thibeau Stockbroekx increased the scoreline.
The world No. 3 then went on to score four more goals through Roman Duvekot (24th minute), Alexander Hendrickx (27th minute), Tommy Willems (30th minute) and Tom Boon to complete the rout in the 38th minute.
Malaysia coach Sarjit Singh said: “I think Belgium played well, and at least our boys know what level they are against them.
“We need to move the ball like how our opponents did,” he added.
Belgium coach Shane McLeod is pleased with his team’s performance, which he noted they have been searching for.
“So, we have been working with a group that’s very diligent in what they try and do, and tonight it all came together at the same time,” he added.
