Although Malaysia suffered a 35-10 defeat to Korea in the opening match of the Asia Rugby Championship they won a lot of fans around the world.
Having been promoted from ARC Division I to compete in the top tier for the first time the task was always going to be tough.
But, despite being ranked 14 places lower than their opponents, the hosts put on a display they should be proud of.
Their first-ever try at the National Stadium has now been seen more than 210,000 times on Asia Rugby’s Facebook page, and their defence was impressive throughout.
One of their top performers was centre Sakiusa Gavidi who put in a number of big tackles and carried the ball well.
“I felt really honoured and blessed to play for Malaysia and to do so at the National Stadium was overwhelming,” said Gavidi.
“It feels unbelievable to be playing in front of those die hard fans and even though we lost they never gave up on us.”
With a quick turnaround before their second of four matches in this year’s Championship, Malaysia will have another opportunity to play in front of their home fans.
They then travel to Korea and Hong Kong for their away matches.
All four of their matches gives Malaysia an opportunity to experience playing at a higher level and it’s an opportunity Gavidi is relishing and enjoying.
“I learned a lot of thing in the match,” said the centre. “Including how to be tough and strong in facing difficult opponents such as Korea.
“Against Hong Kong I am just going to try to be better than the last game. I want to be better in defence and attack but also just go out there and enjoy it and give it my all.
“I need to fuel up again and I will be ready to put in those hard tackles and carry a lot of balls and do the damage.
“We are always looking to improve our fitness this week and to have fun.”
You can watch the game live on Asia Rugby’s Facebook channel, with the match being streamed around the world.
Watch here: http://bit.ly/ARC-Live
