KUALA LUMPUR: National hockey coach Sarjit Singh must take full responsibility for the embarrassing 10-1 defeat to world champions Germany in Sunday's friendly at the Glabach Hockey and Tennis Club.
Sarjit was surprised by the margin of defeat, which he did not expect from his new-look Speedy Tigers.
However, whatever the excuse, losing 10-1 to Germany is unforgivable, and the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) must take immediate action to address the drastic decline.
"The team's defensive structure did not work against Germany. They allowed the world No. 5 team a lot of space and opportunities. Upfront, we were not clinical in Germany's semi-circle," said Sarjit, who guided Malaysia to two wins and one defeat against Belgium B in earlier friendlies in Antwerp.
"We, the coaching staff, will work to help the players improve their weaknesses.
"However, there were positives. The team played an attacking game against a superior side but were inconsistent."
The match against the former Olympic champions was indirectly a trial for the Malaysian players to earn contracts with German clubs.
Now, this may not happen.
On Sunday, Germany scored their goals in the 10th, 14th, 25th, 29th, 30th, 34th, 42nd, 50th, 53rd, and 59th minutes.
Fitri Saari responded for Malaysia off a penalty corner in the 47th minute.