Malaysia fail to reach Axiata Cup final

Axiata Cup defending champions Malaysia have failed to qualify for the 2014 Axiata Cup final based on the number of sets won.

Indonesia booked their final berth after winning six sets compared to four by Malaysia after both teams were tied with two games each.

"Its sad because we were defeated by the number of sets won. Our players have shown excellent performance," said national coach Rashid Sidek after the match at KL Badminton Stadium, Cheras tonight.

Nonetheless based on the performance today, Rashid hopes the players would win the third place deciding match tomorrow.

"Tomorrow, irrespective of whom we meet, I want them to win. I hope the players will maintain the same fighting spirit tomorrow," he added.

Malaysia won the first two sets won via women's singles player Tee Jing Yi. Jing Yi who lost the first set to Bellaetrix Manuputy in 13-21, fought tenaciously to prevail 22-20 and 21-19.

Men's single player Chong Wei Feng had lost to Tommy Sugiarto in straight sets, 16-21, 19-21 in the first game.

Jing Yi's win spurred the men's national doubles pair of Tan Boon Heong/ Tan Wee Kiong to beat Markis Kido/Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo, 21-10,13-21,21-18.

Indonesia secured their win when their mixed doubles of Riky Widianto/Richi Puspita Dili beat Chan Peng Soon/Lai Pei Jing in straight sets, 21-14, 22-10.

Indonesia will meet Thailand or Asian All-Stars in the final tomorrow.