Indian team that seemed to have been struggling to finish matches commensurate with its field dominance made a huge statement today against the host team when it struck four goals in a match that saw six goals. After a 2-0 win in the opener against Japan and a 1-1 draw the other day against Korea in the Day III of 28th Azlan Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Indian team’s morale was not at its best.

Today’s thumping win could well be turned to be game changer for India.

After a barren quarter, India took the lead in the 17th minute with a field goal from Sumit. Malaysian veteran and penalty corner specialist Rahim Razie annulled it four minutes later. The 1-1 score promised a tough fight that it turned it out to be.

Young Sumit Kumar came out with lead again with a field manouvre three minutes before half time, giving the visitor a sense of dream win.

On resumption, India dominated the quarter with Malaysia throwing in whatever it had. It reflected in a twin fruitful strikes.

Firstly, emerging striker Varun Kumar, Junior World Cup goldie, converted a penalty corner in the 36th minute. However, three minutes before end time, Firhan Ashri narrowed the lead to fighting 2-3.

However, centre-forward Mandeep Singh answered with a goal to settle the matter in favour of his team. His 58th minute striker anchored the final nail in the host’s coffin.

India’s 4-2 win over Malaysia, the home side, which is managed by former Indian coach Roelant Oltmans, must have given the adhoc coach David John an elbow room and sigh of relief, whatever.

The day started with a stunner. Canada struck twice against Japan’s solitary goal. Japan coach Siegfried Aikman atributed the defeat to team’s overeagerness to go for goals. Second match of the day too was a close one. Poland despite scoring twice settled for defeat. Poland 2 Korea 3.

Tomorrow, India will take on Poland