IPOH: Malaysia kept their hopes of defending the Sultan Azlan Shah (SAS) Cup alive after stunning world No. 10 New Zealand 6-4 in a pulsating clash thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Hafizuddin Othman.
The Speedy Tigers raced ahead with goals from Faizal Saari (second minute), Azrai Aizad Abu Kamal (fifth, 14th and 60th), Azimuddin Syakir Kamaruddin (sixth) and Muhajir Abdu Rauf (52nd).
The Black Sticks replied through Jake Smith (19th) Jonty Elmes (penalty stroke, 28th) and Isaac Houlbrooke (58th and 60th).
Hafizuddin was in his element, pulling off several saves, including sensationally blocking Elmes' second penalty stroke in the 30th minute.
National coach Sarjit Singh said his men did well to take a four-goal lead in the first quarter and Hafizuddin played a key role in keeping New Zealand from getting into the game.
"I think we got off to a good start after scoring four goals in the first quarter, the opponent made mistakes and we got it front," said Sarjit.
"Hafizuddin did well to save a penalty stroke. He also made some crucial saves in the match."
World No. 13 Malaysia now have six points from three matches and are third in the standings.
The Speedy Tigers will face unbeaten Japan on Wednesday.
Pakistan and Japan have seven points each with the former on top of the standings on goal difference.
SULTAN AZLAN SHAH CUP
RESULTS
Canada 0 South Korea 1
Pakistan 1 Japan 1
Malaysia 6 New Zealand 4
FIXTURES
Today (May 8)
Pakistan v Canada (4pm)
South Korea v New Zealand (6.15pm)
Japan v Malaysia (8.30pm)
* Matches at Azlan Shah Stadium, Ipoh.
