Semi Finals : Semi-final drama is far from over

The Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) semi-finals are far from done and dusted after yesterday’s closely-foughtfirst-leg ties.

League champions Ernst and Young needed a last-minute goal to tame Maybank 2-1 at the Seremban II Hockey Stadium while Sapura overcame Tenaga Nasional 3-1 at the KL Hockey Stadium.

The return-legs, set for tomorrow, are sure to be explosive affairs given the slim advantages of Ernst and Young and Sapura.

Ernst and Young dominated the proceedings in their match against Maybank and took the lead in the 39th minute through Ismail Abu.

But the Tigers hit back just three minutes later — thanks to Hafifihafiz Hanafi.

With just a minute to go, youngster Mohd Razie restored Ernst and Young’s advantage.

Maybank coach S. Vellapan was happy with his boys’ performance and felt they should have held on for a draw.

“The champions dominated but we kept them at bay for long periods.

“This tie is not over and we still have 70 minutes to go on Sunday,” said Vellapan.

“The champions may have the advantage but we will give it a real go.”

In the other match, Tenaga went on the offensive right from the first whistle to take the lead in the 25th minute through Zaharin Zakaria.

Three minutes later Sapura were back on level terms with a field goal by Jivan Mohan.

S. Kuhan then made it 2-1 for Sapura off a penalty corner set piece in the 35th minute.

Sapura then took advantage of an error in Tenaga’s backline to make it 3-1 through South Korean Song Seung-tae in the 40th minute.

The final will be held on Dec 27.

First-leg semi-final results

Maybank 1 Ernst and Young 2

Tenaga Nasional 1 Sapura 3.

Tomorrow's 2nd leg fixtures

Ernst and Young vs Maybank

(National Hockey Stadium, 5.00pm)

Sapura vs Tenaga Nasional

(KL Hockey Stadium, 5.00pm)