Perak came from a goal down to emerge champions of the MHC-MILO-NSC National Under 16 Tournamemt as they edged Malacca 2-1 at the Ministry of Education Stadium in Pantai tonight.
Perak deserved the win as they showed composure and tremendous grit, despite a first half deficit, utilising the penalty corners awarded to score the two goals that gave them the title.
"I could not have asked more as the players showed courage and fighting spirit, never giving up despite being a goal down," said Perak coach Mohd Nizam Mohd Hashim.
"It is a good win for Perak hockey as it shows we are on the right track in developing future players."
Malacca took the lead in the 31st minute through Mohd Alif Syazwan Noorshah who converted a penalty corner.
However Perak were on level terms in the 43rd minute Muhd Luqman Hakim Mohd Asri who struck from a penalty corner.
Muhammad AsheinyrulAzreei gave the silver state the title by scoring the winner in the 56th minute.
Roll of Honour:
Champion: Perak
Runner Up: Malacca
Third: Kuala Lumpur
Fourth: Terengganu
Best Player of the Tournament: Luqman Nul Hakim Ahmad Shukran ( Terengganu)
Man of Match (Final): Mohd Badrul Amin (Perak)
Top Goal Scorer: Wan Haziq Hishamuddin (Kuala Lumpur)
Best Goalkeeper: Adrian Andy (Sabah)
Fairplay: Malacca
