KUALA LUMPUR: It wasn't as bad as the 10-1 thrashing by Germany several days ago. The national men's hockey team put up a better fight this time, letting in fewer goals but still lost 5-0 to the Netherlands in a friendly match in Arnhem today.
World No. 1 Netherlands gave the 12th ranked Malaysians no chance to settle down, scoring in the very first minute. They pumped in more goals in the ninth, 23rd, 43th and 55th minutes.
It was the first time in the Speedy Tigers' playing tour of Europe that they failed to score a single goal.
Malaysia played Belgium B three times, winning 3-2 twice and losing once, 4-2. Sarjit Singh's team were later mauled 10-1 by world champions Germany before they beat German club Monchengladbach 9-2.
National coach Sarjit said his team played a very high intensity match and it was a good outing for the team.
"Today the players worked hard and the defence structure was much better compared to the match against Germany.
"We not only defended but also played a high pressing game."
The national team will play a friendly match against India on Sunday before they return home.