Malaysian women hockey team beat Russia 3-0

Malaysia's women hockey team secured their second victory against Russia 3-0 in their second match of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) World League Round 2 played at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here.

Malaysian girls who trashed the Kazakhstan 8-0 yesterday, played cautiously in the first half and could not penetrate the gutsy Russian defence in the first half, which ended up 0-0.

They regained confidence and showed much more composure in the penalty box in the second half in securing three goals.

Hanis Nadia Onn who scored two goals yesterday, netted one more today and securing herself as top scorer of the Malaysian team.

Two other goals were scored by Juliani Mohamad Din and Fazilla Sylvester Silin.

Malaysia's national coach Mohd Nasihin Nubli Ibrahim said Malaysian girls who played against much more well built Russian girls were over cautious and nervous in their game in the first half.

"However, in the second half they regained their composure and step up their games which put the Russians under pressure.

"Credit also should be given to our defence since today's game is much more tougher compared against Kazakhstan", said Mohd Nasihin, who confirmed that his team would train tomorrow even though it was rest day for all teams.

Malaysian will play their last group match against Singapore who lost to Kazakhstan 4-0.

For record, this is the second victory against Russians within two years after their first in 2013 with a 3-1 victory.

Malaysia are in Pool B with Russia, Kazakhstan and Singapore while India, Poland, Ghana and Thailand are in Pool A.

The Malaysian team, currently ranking 21st in the women's world hockey, are seeded second among the eight participating teams.