SEA Games: Thailand still in contention for gold after beating Indonesia

Penphan Yothanan

THE Malaysian women's basketball team have to put their celebrations on hold. This is because Thailand are still in contention for the gold after beating Indonesia 70-61 at the Maba Stadium yesterday. The Thais, who suffered a shock 69-67 loss to the Philippines on Wednesday, went into the match against Indonesia knowing that a defeat would automatically hand the gold to unbeaten Malaysia. And they just had enough in depth to edge the Indonesians for a nine-point win. Penphan Yothanan (170-C-83) led the scoring for the Thais with 16 points while Supira Klanbut (175-C-94) contributed 13 as Thailand head into the final round-robin match with Malaysia - the decider for the gold medal - today with confidence. Thai head coach Christopher Daleo believes that his team will be ready to wrest the gold away from Malaysia. 'We had a team talk after the loss to the Philippines. 'We talked about controlling the pace and closing off matches and the team responded well,' said Daleo. 'I have faith in my girls and I'm confident they are prepared to take the gold back from Malaysia.' Malaysia, on their part, warmed up for the crunch match in style by crushing Myanmar 145-53 for their fifth straight win in the competition. Forward Poh Yee Ooi (175-F-93), given a rare start, exploded to life with 34 points, including eight three-pointers. Back-up guard Tai Chia Qian also had a fine game with 26 points while pint-sized Wong Mei Chyn scored 23 points off the bench. In total, Malaysia knocked down 23 three-pointers with an impressive 52% conversion rate. 'We are ready to fight Thailand. They are a good team and we need to focus on our defence,' said head coach Sze Yuin Yoong . 'What's important is that my players need to be able to handle the pressure tomorrow (today). 'If they can do that, then we're in good hands.' In the men's competition, 16-time winners Philippines marched into the final after edging Singapore 68-60. They will take on either Thailand or Indonesia for the gold. Malaysia ended their campaign in fifth place after beating Vietnam 93-64.
Courtesy of: thestar.com.my