Bjorn Michel pumped in four goals including a hat-trick as Germany completed a 5-1 rout of hosts Malaysia to go at the top of the table in the Azlan Shah hockey tournament, on Monday. Germany, who were leading 2-0 at the break, scored three goals in the second half to lead 5-0 before Chairil Anwar scored a consolation goal for Malaysia two minutes before the final whistle.
Germany have won all their three matches and lead the table with nine points. On Monday, they play Korea who are in the joint second spot with seven points. Malaysia's ploy of playing an ultra-defensive game worked initially when the Germans were unable to break through their defences. Michel broke the deadlock in the 17th minute when his flick off a penalty corner which beat the Malaysian goalkeeper Roslan. He got the second goal with a smart snap shot from just inside the circle.
In another match, Pakistan defeated England 4-3 to join Korea in the second place with seven points. Bureau Report