Kenny Bain scored one and made another but could not help Scotland over the line as Malaysia clung on for the points in their World Cup qualifier in New Zealand.

Scotland, despite coming into this clash on the back of a hard-fought victory over Austria, found themselves three goals down at the break as a Faizal Saari double and Muhammad Rahim?s strike stunned Russell Garcia?s men.

But Bain led the fightback and he rifled home before teeing up Stephen Dick on 49 minutes to give Scotland hoped.

As the Scots pressed for the equaliser, two Malaysian players and Scotland?s Vishal Marwaha were all carded before John Harris? struck a volley off the post.

But time ran out for the Scots and while a brief period of chaos ensued as the final hooter sounded 23 seconds early, there was no time for a dramatic equaliser.

Scotland have been playing for pride since losing their opening two matches, and were looking to build on their win against Austria, but Garcia insists he was pleased with what he saw.

?This was a great fight back after a disappointing first half,? said Garcia. ?We dominated after the interval and played the best hockey I`ve seen since taking over the squad.

?Despite the outcome, the performance was very promising.?

Elsewhere, hosts New Zealand thumped China 6-1 and now look set to claim the one available World Cup spot while Austria leapfrogged Scotland with a 2-0 win over pointless Wales.