KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 24 (Bernama) — Pahang made history by clinching the inaugural National Men’s Under-21 (U-21) Hockey 5s Championship after edging Perak 2-1 in the final at the National Hockey Stadium, Bukit Jalil, here today.
Pahang struck early, taking the lead in the third minute through a field goal by Shafiq Amar Fahmi Suzaini.
They extended their advantage four minutes later when Iman Faris Faizo capitalised on a one-on-one ‘challenge’ situation to put Pahang firmly in control.
Perak pulled one back in the 16th minute through Ahmad Ariff Daniel Mohd Shahrean, but Pahang held on to seal the title.
Head coach Mohd Sufian Mohamad said he was pleased that his players executed the plan to score early and apply pressure on their opponents.
“I hope this success will open the door for the Pahang State Government to help provide a dedicated Hockey 5s pitch, as we previously trained on a makeshift field in Temerloh,” he said after the match.
Earlier, Negeri Sembilan emerged champions in the women’s competition after defeating Pahang 4-1.
-- BERNAMA
