Malaysia lifts Asia Rugby U19 trophy

SERDANG, Dec 18 -- Malaysia defeated United Arab Emirates (UAE) 15-14 during a second match at Padang A, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) today to lift the Asia Rugby Under-19 (U19) Championship Men’s Division 2 trophy.

The national squad collected six points overall and UAE four points after marks from the first match on Sunday -- which ended in a 12-12 draw -- were added together.

Today’s success allows Malaysia to return to Division 1 next season after its last battle in 2017.

In today’s competition, coach Mohd Farid Syazwan’s team scored two tries, one conversion and one penalty, while UAE only got one try and three penalties.

Malaysia’s two tries was by Ahmad Zulhilmi Azizad in the 2nd and 15th minute, while the conversion in the 3rd minute was by Muhamad Hafiezie Sudin, as well as a penalty in the 24th minute.

UAE’s 14 points was contributed by Justin Brits who scored two penalties in the 9th and 31st minute, while Baptiste Requillart and Alistair Hess succeeded with two tries in the 19th and 52nd minute respectively.

“Although we only had a short time to prepare the team, everyone’s commitment helped us achieve what we desired.

“The second half was slow and UAE, with its physical edge, almost dominated the game, but we fought harder and won the game,” said Mohd Farid.

He said preparations in earnest for Division 1 should begin now for matches scheduled at the end of 2020.

“Division 1 is a higher standard than Division 2, and we need to do early planning to find the best combination,” he said.

-- BERNAMA