Malaysia wrap up top-eight finish with draw

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Sydney: A second-half goal by Anwar Chairil earned Malaysia their fourth successive draw on Tuesday and assured a top-eight finish in the Olympic men's hockey tournament.

After losing narrowly to Germany in their opening game, Malaysia strung together four draws, including Tuesday's 1-1 tie with Canada.

Their total of five goals was the lowest of the 12 teams, even tough Nawawi Mirnawan, Ibrahim Suhaimi and Zaini Nor Saiful produced some of the most exhilarating attacks seen in the tournament.

Against Canada, they trailed 1-0 at the break after captain Peter Milkovich converted a penalty. Capitalising on good lead-up work, Chairil had his first shot blocked by Canadian goalkeeper Mike Mahood but calmly slotted the rebound to ensure Malaysia a place in top eight.

Playing in just their fourth Olympics, Malaysia will have been buoyed by the assured performances of 20-year-old midfielder Boon Huat Chua and back Bakar Nor Azlan, 22.

With an average age of just over 24, they have much to look forward to on the international stage.

Canada also went winless in Pool B, leaving Milkovich to lament a lack of killer instinct among his men.

"We seem to have lost our confidence when we should have total control of the game," Milkovich said. "I'm so disappointed... we should have players who play with heart."



(c) Reuters Limited.