Goalballers set sights on a historic gold

MALAYSIA are just two matches away from clinching a historic gold in the men’s goalball.

The hosts defeated Indonesia 10-0 for their fourth win in as many matches at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MiTEC) yesterday.

A simple win over Myanmar and Cambodia in their remaining matches will be enough for Malaysia to clinch the gold for the first time in five Games.

Thailand have been their nemesis in previous editions but Malaysia had no problems overcoming them 13-7.

National coach Abdul Karim Raham acknowledged that they are in a good position to win the gold.

“But we must not be complacent. We had a good win over Indonesia, but we need to stay alert. Our game against Myanmar is also crucial.

“The main thing is to be consistent and make sure we win our next two matches,” he said.

Malaysia have 12 points after four matches while second-placed Thailand are three points behind.

The top-placed team after the round-robin matches will be declared champions.

In the women’s category, Malaysia are in third place with four points after labouring to a 9-8 win over Myanmar yesterday.

Unbeaten Thailand are almost assured of the gold while Laos are tipped to take the silver.

Malaysia have two more matches to go – against Laos and Thailand tomorrow.