Asian Games: Mixed fortunes for Izzaq

Japan's Hotaru Yamaguchi (left) and Malaysia's Rohidan fight for the ball in their match yesterday. Japan won 2-0.

IZZAQ Faris Ramlan had a mixture of emotions as he missed a golden chance to score against Japan, got himself booked before being substituted in a lively first start at the Asian Games yesterday. The 20-year-old Young Tigers forward who stands at 1.84m, could have brought Malaysia level in the Group A match at the Huadu Stadium just before the break but headed straight at the goalkeeper.

"The ball was coming at me a little high and I could not get enough power on it. The Japanese defenders are strong and I tried to push as hard as I could," said Izzaq, standing in for the injured Ahmad Fakri Saarani.

Izzaq was then booked as the half-time whistle went when he slammed the ball with his hands, which national coach K. Rajagobal later attributed to nervousness.
"I was just venting my frustration but the referee said I was intending to hit a player. I was a little nervous playing against such a good team.

"But I hope to do better against China, if selected, and help the team get to the next round," added Izzaq, who was replaced with 15 minutes remaining.

Striker Norshahrul Idlan Talaha and winger S. Kunanlan also hobbled off but should recover from their knocks to face China.


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