Malaysia’s national U21 hockey team suffered a 1–4 defeat to defending champions Great Britain in the 13th edition of the Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC) at Johor Hockey Stadium, Taman Daya.
The loss came just days after the Young Tigers’ 4–2 victory over New Zealand, with Nor Saiful Zaini Nasiruddin’s side unable to sustain their winning momentum against a clinical British side. The result marked Malaysia’s second defeat of the tournament, following their earlier 2–7 loss to Pakistan, significantly diminishing their chances of finishing on the podium.
Malaysia started brightly, earning three consecutive penalty corners within the first three minutes, but Harris Iskandar Osman and Azimuddin Shakir Kamaruddin were unable to convert any of them.
Great Britain quickly took control, and in the 10th minute, Kaden Draysey broke the deadlock with a perfectly executed penalty corner strike, beating goalkeeper Haziq Muizuddin Hairul Mizan.
The Young Tigers responded positively, and in the 17th minute, Adam Asyraf Mohd Johari equalized after Handzalah Abdul Hadi’s clever assist carved open the British defense.
However, the joy was short-lived. Just two minutes later, Jonny Sturch-Hibbit restored Britain’s lead with a field goal, driving the ball between Haziq’s legs to make it 2–1.
Britain extended their advantage in the 26th minute through Monty Neave, who capitalized on Michael Royden’s fine run down the right flank to slot home unmarked.
Despite Malaysia’s renewed energy after the interval, they found it difficult to penetrate the British defense. The Young Tigers maintained their attacking intent but were repeatedly denied by the compact defensive structure of Jon Bleby’s men.
In the 39th minute, Sturch-Hibbit struck again, firing a powerful shot past Haziq to seal the win at 4–1, as Britain cruised to another dominant performance.
Credit Photo : Hokita
