Mongolia began the defence of their International Ice Hockey Federation Challenge Cup of Asia title by beating hosts Malaysia 9-5 today ©MHF

Mongolia began the defence of their International Ice Hockey Federation Challenge Cup of Asia title by beating hosts Malaysia 9-5 today.

Altangerel Ichinnorov, Enkhamgalan Erdenejav and Mishigsuren Namjil all bagged two goals each for the holders at the Malaysia National Ice Skating Stadium.

Also on the scoresheet were Erdenesukh Bold, Batgerel Zorigt and Gerelt Ider.

Malaysia, who defeated Singapore in the Group A opener on Friday (March 1), were unable to keep in touch with their opponents. 

Their goals came courtesy of braces for Chee Ming Bryan Lim and Wai Kin Brandon Tan, as well as a solitary strike from Aiman Zul Rafiq Mohd Fadzul.

Indonesia edged Oman to make it three wins out of three in Group B ©IIHF
Indonesia edged Oman to make it three wins out of three in Group B ©IIHF

In Group B, Indonesia made it three wins out of three by overcoming Oman 6-5.

Group A is the stronger pool at the tournament with the top two advancing straight into the semi-finals.

The bottom two Group A sides will meet the top two in Group B for the right to join them.

Mongolia will face Singapore in Group A tomorrow.

Macau go up against Oman in the three-team Group B, where every side will play the other twice.