KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's losing streak in hockey's Sultan of Johor Cup (SoJC) continued with a 4-2 loss to Britain at the Taman Daya Stadium today.
However, unlike previous matches, this time Malaysia played in patches for the first three quarters and then tried a fightback by scoring two goals in the final 15 minutes.
And when the final horn blew, many players sank to the artificial pitch with disappointed faces, a first show of emotion after four consecutive defeats.
Malaysia will play Japan in the final group match Friday but have "booked" their fifth-sixth classification spot in advance.
A second minute goal, followed by a green card for Zulhanif Sahran, set the early tempo for Malaysia who only came to life in the final minutes.
Britain scored off Tom Moorhouse (second), Fred Newbold (17th), Jamie Golden (34th) and Harrison Stone (43rd).
Malaysia's late fightback was from Danish Aiman (50th) and Shahmie Irfan (53rd).
"Even in defeat, I saw some positive vibes from my players as they tried to make a comeback in the final quarter but it was not enough.
"In the previous three matches, my players had their worst moments after the half-time break when fitness came into play. However, against Britain they made some defensive errors early in the match but played positive hockey in the last quarter.
"This is what I will build upon leading towards the Junior World Cup next December," said Malaysia coach Amin Rahim.
India enjoyed a steady drizzle to hold Australia to a 5-5 draw and keep their hopes alive for a spot in the final.
It was fantastic hockey displayed by both sides, which resulted in the first draw of the tournament.
India's goals were scord by Boby Singh (second), Tiwari Sharda (eighth, 35th), Araijeet Singh (18th) and Amandeep Singh (60th).
Australia scored through Liam Hart (third), Jack Holland (eighth), Josua Brooks (20th, 41st) and Jake Lambeth (49th).
RESULTS: India 5 Australia 5, Malaysia 2 Britain 4