NAJMI Jazlan was trusted with only one penalty corner in three matches, and he scored a lovely goal against Oman in the hockey Asia Cup in Dhaka, Bangladesh, yesterday.
Even though the stopper bungled and the ball bounced away from Najmi, the 22-year-old kept his composure and slammed in a reverse stick which almost cracked the board.
It was the seventh goal in Malaysia's 7-1 win.
“Yes, it was my first penalty corner of the tournament and I'm glad that I managed to score even though the ball was not stopped well and fell on my left side.
“I knew I had to make it count to gain the team's trust. And if given a chance in the round robin, I will make sure again,” said the six-footer.
Najmi was also tested as the sole defender, and he did well to stop Oman counter-attacks.
And in the World League Round Two final at the same venue, Najmi scored the equaliser, at 2-2, off a penalty corner attempt in the 55th minute to take the match to shoot-out where Malaysia won 5-3.
“I have been with the team for two years and am still learning the ropes, but if I’m given more time and chances during penalty corners, I know I will not disappoint.”
Faizal Shaari and Shahril Saabah have also scored off penalty corners, and only No 1 flicker Razie Rahim have yet to find his form even though he has been given the lion's share.