Bangladesh suffer second straight defeat

Bangladesh suffered their second consecutive defeat in the Men’s Junior Asia Cup hockey tournament, going down 4-2 to Malaysia in Hulunbuir City in China on Sunday.

The defeat left Bangladesh level on zero points with bottom-placed Kazakhstan in the five-team Pool B, but they remain ahead on fewer goals conceded after two matches.

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Bangladesh entered the contest hoping to bounce back from their 3-2 defeat to hosts China in their tournament opener. However, Malaysia proved a tough opponent and broke the deadlock in the second quarter after a goalless opening period.

Gunaseelan Dheeressh converted a penalty corner in the 21st minute to put Malaysia ahead, and Shelston Silverious doubled their advantage just two minutes later with a field goal.

Despite conceding twice in quick succession, Bangladesh responded strongly. Mohammad Abdullah, who also scored against China, pulled one back with a field goal in the 24th minute to give the red and green renewed hope.

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Bangladesh carried that momentum into the second half and levelled the score through Mehedy Hasan, who struck from open play to make it 2-2.

However, Malaysia regained control in the final quarter. Suzaini Fahmi scored twice within three minutes, in the 49th and 51st minutes, to restore Malaysia’s lead and effectively settle the contest.

The result handed Malaysia their second win from as many matches, while Bangladesh suffered their second defeat.

Bangladesh will face Kazakhstan in their third Pool B match on Tuesday before taking on Pakistan in their final group game the following day.