Sunday, May 29 2005 16:47 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kuala Lumpur: India's chances suffered a serious setback after they were routed 4-1 by Malaysia in a preliminary round match of the Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament in Kuala Lumpur today (May 29, 2005).

India had a terrible outing at the Bukit Jalil stadium, as they slumped to their first loss in the seven-nation competition with their rivals romping home riding on a second half blitz.

Captain Kuhan Shanmuganathan led admirably striking in two goals while Robert Alcantara and Mohd Amin Rahim slammed home once each.

India, whose lone goal came through Dilip Tirkey, were tied 1-1 at the break, but were done in by three second half goals which came in a space of nine minutes.

India, who have so far four points from three outings including a win against South Africa, have some tough matches ahead, against Asian Games gold medallists South Korea on Tuesday (May 31, 2005), Pakistan (June 1) and Olympic champions Australia (June 3).