Malaysia take on Pakistan in their third match of the AHF Champions Trophy in Doha and it will be a six pointer as so far as national coach Paul Revington is concerned.
For a win for either team will put them in good stead for a top two finish in the preliminary round, thus virtually assuring the winner a place in Thursday's final.
Malaysia registered two wins thus far, defeating Japan and Oman with identical 4-1 scorelines while Pakistan too won their two matches, a 8-3 against Oman and 5-2 against Japan.
While the general notion of elation was expected with the win over Oman, the fact that Malaysia failed to get enough goals and also went a goal down before scoring four goals to run out comfortable winners.
"I am naturally pleased with the
result and the three points for I never take this for granted," said Revington.
"Performance
wise we were all a bit frustrated as the overall effort and technical
application was inconsistent.
"We did manage to still score four goals, however we left a few goals out there!"
Malaysia will play Pakistan on Sunday night and it will be vital three points at stake for both teams. A win for either will put them in the drivers seat as they both have India to play.
And Revington is well aware of the tough task awaiting his team.
"Pakistan are obviously a very good side and have
made minimal (two) changes to a side that did well at the recent
Champions Trophy," said Revs
"They enjoyed good crowd support this evening and it
sounded like they were the home team! It will be a very good battle
between two quality teams."
Revington also paid tribute to the hosts stating the the tournament has been very good so far and the general organization has been simple and effective.
But it will be the second consecutive time that Revington will spend Christmas away from his family and wife Sandy.
"Sandy
is already back in Cape Town with her family for Christmas, so it will be another
Christmas away from her and the family," said Revs.
"Last year was the first
Christmas we missed with the family (we stayed in Ireland). Hopefully
this scheduling is avoided in the future - including playing two big
events so close to another. "
So the Malaysian team should raise their game and deliver the three points and in the process deliver an early Christmas present.
