SA Hockey Men made it two wins from two in their test series against Malaysia, holding off a strong Malaysian challenge to secure a 2-1 victory in the second test.
Photo – ACK Sport Photography
Following on from their opening 3-1 win, South Africa were made to work hard in a contest that started with very little between the two sides. The first quarter was tight and physical, with both teams struggling to create clear chances as the opening 15 minutes ended goalless.
Malaysia took control of the attacking momentum in the second quarter, winning a number of penalty corners and asking serious questions of the South African defence. But Cullin de Jager, fresh from being named Goalkeeper of the Tournament at the FIH Nations Cup, continued his excellent form with another commanding display in goal.
South Africa’s defensive unit also stood firm, producing important rearguard action to keep Malaysia out. At the other end, the hosts’ best moment came from a lifted ball into Tevin Kok, but no South African player was able to connect with his dangerous cross.
Malaysia continued to threaten, with Azrai looking superb in attack, but he was denied by De Jager and Sam Mvimbi. He also came close from an aerial cross, but could only lift his effort over the target. Just before half-time, Sihle Ngubane forced Othman into a good save as the first half ended without a goal.
After 43 goalless minutes, the crowd was treated to a frantic three-minute spell that brought the game to life.
Jamie Seale opened the scoring for South Africa after excellent work from Carlon Mentoor, who pulled the ball back into the circle. Seale made no mistake, firing home a reverse-stick strike from the top of the circle to score his first international goal.
Malaysia responded almost immediately, catching South Africa napping from the restart. Jalil produced a brilliant first-time touch to set up the dangerous Azrai, who finished superbly and left the inspired De Jager with no chance.
But South Africa struck again before the end of the third quarter. A well-worked penalty corner variation saw Calvin Davis flick towards goal, with captain Dayaan Cassiem getting the crucial deflection to restore the lead and make it 2-1 heading into the final break.
Malaysia continued to ask questions in the final quarter, but De Jager had the answers. With the South African defence holding firm under pressure, the hosts saw out the contest to claim a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
Cullin de Jager was named Player of the Match after another outstanding performance in goal.
The third test takes place on Thursday.
