The goalkeeping department was a concern for the National Under 15 team even before they left to participate in the Whisun Cup in Germany.
And that stuck out like a sore thumb as Malaysia went down 6-1 to the German U16 side at Mannheim.
Keeper Muhammad Hamiz was a bundle of nerves as he conceded soft goals due to his technical weakness as well as lack of experience.
Malaysia had 14 circle penat rations and only scored once as opposed to their opponents who had 16 penetrations and scored six times.
" We were let down by poor finishing and conceded rather soft goals," said coach Nor Saiful Zaini Nadiruddin.
" We knew about the weakness in the goalkeeping department and this is something we need to address as changes need to be made to the system.
" We played open Hockey and I have no regrets with the outcome as it simply boils down to our inability to score and defend well.
" These two areas will be worked on and it's something I hope to see some improvement in our next match against Holland.
Muhammad Zafri Afiq Nur Azlan scored the solitary Malaysian goal in the 59th minute.
Germany had scored their goals through no. 29, pc, m-10
Germany no. 26, fg, m-14
Germany no. 26, fg, m-52
Germany no. 24, ps, m-65
Germany no. 3, fg, m-68
Germany no.3, fg, m-70
Saiful said that his team had dominated play and the scoreline was not a just reflection of how the match went.
" We were on top of them for long spells but could not put away the chances," added Ssiful.
"It's a long learning curve and this defeat will give them an indication that the road to success at international level will come through sheer hard work and the desire to improve.
" I do not blame the keeper as it was his inexperience that led to the soft goals. That is why I kept him throughout the match so he would gain the exposure Abd learn from it."
