Malaysia pulled off a splendid surprise by beating sepaktakraw powerhouse Thailand 21-7, 21-19 in straight sets to win the Istaf Super Series Malaysia 2015 title here today, the first title in the series since 2011.
Backed by 3,000 odd boisterous home fans who packed the Melaka International Trade Centre to the brim, Malaysia led by captain Farhan Adam, threw the 'underdog' tag out of the window to sweep aside the Thais who had started as the title favourites after having won the first Super Series in Myanmar by beating
Malaysia.
"We played well throughout the tournament and today the fans provided the much needed boost to inspire us to win. This win is for the fans," said Farhan who plays as the 'feeder' in the team.
Malaysian coach Abd Talib Ahmad said a telepathic understanding among the trio - Mohd Syahir Mohd Rosdi (tekong) Farhan (feeder) and Khairol Zaman Hamir (killer) - was the key to the win.
"We were strong in defence and lethal in attack. Every player carried out their respective duties well and the Thais had no answer," he said.
RESULTS :
Men's final:
Malaysia bt Thailand 21-7, 21-19
3rd/4th playoff:
South Korea bt Singapore 21-16, 21-16
Women's final:
Thailand bt Vietnam 21-8, 21-12
3rd/4th playoff:
Myanmar bt South Korea 21-17, 21-15
Bernama
Sun Feb 08 2015
Tekong Syahir Rosdi congratulating his fellow teammates after they defeated Thailand in a final showdown today. - Photo by Astro ARENA
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