Gareth Furlong’s Double Fires Wales Top Of Their Pool In Malaysia

Gareth Furlong’s double fired Wales to victory over Belarus to top their Pool in the FIH Men’s Series in Kuala Lumpur.

The 26-year-old’s brace took Wales two points clear of Pool A in Malaysia as they followed up their stunning victory over World No 10 side Canada on Friday.

Coack Zak Jones’ side, ranked 24 in the world, can seal top spot in the pool in their final match against Austria on Monday.

Furlong’s double came after he celebrated winning his 100th cap for his country in the 3-1 defeat of the Canadians.

Belarus took a shock lead after just four minutes when Uladzislau Belavusau netted with a great strike.

But Furlong levelled the scores before the end of the first quarter when he sturck from a penaty corner after 13 minutes.

There were no further goals in the second and third quarters as both teams battled each other and the hot and humid conditions.

Gareth Furlong joined the Wales 100 Club in Malaysia and celebrated with two goals.

But most of the pressure was coming from Wales with Jacob Draper and skipper Luke Hawker prominent.

And with just six minutes left defender Furlong fired home the winner with a fizzing effort.

Belarus pulled their keeper in a desperate bid to grab the equaliser but shot wide from a late penalty corner.

Wales topped the group after Austria – who had thrashed Belarus 5-0 in their opener – slipped to a 2-1 defeat against Canada.

Owain Dolan-Gray said: “It wasn’t our best performance. But we have been playing well for some time now and now our progress is beginning to show.

“We have had some very good results lately and the incredible atmosphere here is helping us develop our confidence and enjoyment.

“Now we will recover and come back to make it three from three.”