Hosts Malaysia did not get the right start as they would have wanted as they went down 2-4 against New Zealand in their opening match of Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on Sunday.

The Malaysians were off to a bad start after they conceded two quick goals within a minute in the first quarter itself.

Nick Haig opened the scoring for New Zealand in the fourth minute while skipper Simon Child added a goal in the next minute.

Malaysia came back into the game in the second quarter after Ramadan Rosli pulled one down for the hosts.

With no goals scored in the third quarter, Malaysia made frequent attempts in the fourth and final quarter, gaining success in the 52nd minute when Shahrun Abdullah equalized for them.

However, the success was short lived as three minutes later Andy Hayward once again got back the lead.

To the disappointment of the local fans, the final nail was hammered two minutes later by Shay Neal, who scores the winning goal.

Skipper Simon Child was declared Player of the Match.

Hosts Malaysia will take on defending champions Australia tomorrow while New Zealand will play against India.