Women’s sepak takraw squad keep semi-final hopes alive
PALEMBANG: The national women’s sepak takraw squad kept their hopes of a place in the semi- finals of the Asian Games alive when they beat Japan 2- 0 in Group B match at Ranau Hall, Jakabaring Sports City.
The team under Mohd Fikri Mohd Nor fought back from 7-14 in the first set to win 21-18.
In the second set, the national squad appeared more aggressive to defeat Japan 21-17.
Meanwhile, Mohd Fikri praised his players for not giving up despite trailing far behind in the first set.
“Even though, Japan was leading far ahead, our players did not give up and went on to win.
“The match against Vietnam tomorrow will determine if we could bag a medal.
“As a semi- finalist we would be assured of at least a bronze medal,” he told Bernama after the match.
Malaysia have chalked up two victories and a loss after beating India 2- 0 and losing to Thailand 0-2.
Malaysia are in group B with Thailand, Vietnam, Japan and India.
Hosts Indonesia are in group A with South Korea, Myanmar and Laos.
Meanwhile in Jakarta, the women’s hockey ended their campaign in fifth after defeating Thailand 2- 0 at Gelora Bung Karno Hockey Field.
The fifth place finish was also a repeat of their last three editions of the Games in 2006, 2010 and 2014. — Bernama