Myanmar hold 10-man Malaysia to a scoreless draw

Malaysia's 2014 AFF Suzuki Cup campaign got off to a rather miserable start after being held to a scoreless draw by Myanmar in a Group B action at the Jalan Besar Stadium, here today.

Though the condition of the pitch was a cause for concern for both teams and the fact that Malaysia had to play two thirds of the match with 10-man when referee Kurbanov Charymurat from Turkmenistan gave Gary Steven Robbat the marching orders for a second book able offence, it was no excuse for coach Dollah Salleh's side.

Malaysia did score as early as the fifth minute through Mohd Amri Yahyah but the goal was disallowed for offside.

Dollah must also thank Myanmar for their inability to score despite dominating play in the second half and the support of about 5,000 fans.

Credit must also go to goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat who made some splendid saves.

Malaysia will next face three times winner Thailand at the same venue on Wednesday (Nov 26) while Myanmar face host and defending champion Singapore at the National Stadium at the Singapore Sports Hub on the same day.