BY ZULHILMI ZAINAL Follow on Twitter
Malaysia head coach Tan Cheng Hoe has praised his charges’ performance in their 7-0 friendly match win over Bhutan; their first win since November 2016.
After 12 consecutive matches without winning, Tan signalled the hosts’ intention against the 188th-ranked side; by fielding his strongest available side at the start of the match. The decision paid off, with Malaysia leading 5-0 at halftime before adding two more goals in the second half.
Malaysia’s goals against Bhutan
Speaking to the press after the match at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, Tan commended the return of his men’s desire to win matches, and dedicated the win to the Malaysian FA (FAM) president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.
“The players and the coaching staff were eager to win again and this was evident from the starting whistle to the last second of the game. This win, our first after 12 games is dedicated to FAM president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim for his support towards the national team.
“Our performance just now, that was truly ‘Harimau Malaya’. I want the players to take to the field with that kind of eagerness in the future; showing that they badly want to win, regardless of the opponents,” remarked the former Kedah head coach.
Tan then added that in the coming FIFA international match window, friendly matches will be arranged against stronger sides. Earlier on March 22, Malaysia had played the 189th-ranked Mongolia at the same venue; and were held to a shock 2-2 draw.
“The board will arrange for the next round of friendlies, while at the same time we do need to play against stronger teams,” said Tan.
Tan speaking to the press after the match
