SEA Games: Singapore down but not out despite losing netball gold to Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR — They went into the SEA Games netball final as underdogs looking to spring an upset.

But Singapore could not ruin the hosts’ party as they found themselves blown away on Sunday afternoon (Aug 20) by Malaysia in a 41-65 loss at Juara Stadium, whose capacity crowd erupted in delight at the final whistle as their heroines brought home the gold after a 16-year wait.

The Malaysians, who had won the title when netball was first introduced in the 2001 edition, had lost the final 43-46 to Singapore two years ago when the sport returned to the Games.

With nine of those 12 members from 2015 in this current side, they were always going to be fired up to reclaim their netball crown and that proved to be the case.

In front of a baying partisan crowd, which also included Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak (above), that roared like thunder every time a point was scored, Malaysia streaked into a 20-7 lead in the first quarter and were 36-12 up by half-time.

Goal shooter Najwa Azizan was unplayable, making all 17 of her first quarter attempts and 14 out of 16 in the second, pumping her right fist to gee up the home supporters after every one of her goals.

Singapore head coach Yeo Mee Hong admitted that her side’s lacklustre first half showing left them with too much to do and their opponents set up well tactically.

“They were forcing our players wide and we had difficulties getting free and we were losing our centre passes,” she said.

“We just couldn’t break their (defensive) wall. They were so tight on us and we just didn’t follow our game plan. They (also adapted and their attackers) got rid of our defenders easily, by changing directions, for example.”

Her opposite number, Tracey Robinson, even felt confident enough to replace Najwa and fellow shooter Izwan Syazana at half-time, though that resulted in a more even second half that finished 29-all.

Singapore’s shooting improved by leaps and bounds after the break, with Charmaine Soh missing only one of her 24 attempts as they tried to mount an unlikely comeback.

But the relative inexperience of the Singaporeans proved telling eventually – seven players were making their Games debut – and Yeo was gracious in defeat against the reigning Asian champions.

“I have to congratulate Malaysia, I thought they deserved it as they were very composed and had experienced players who have been together for many years,” she said. “They played an excellent game against us.

“We did a good job against Thailand (in the semi-final… But unfortunately, we just couldn’t bring out our A-game against Malaysia and they were just too strong for us.”

Singapore did improve progressively with each game after a nervy opening win against Brunei and that was not lost on Yeo, who felt there were “lots of positives” despite the heart-breaking defeat.

Youngsters like Aqilah Andin, Toh Kai Wei and Shina Teo, all 21, got valuable game time and Yeo was pleased with their performances, along with the four other new members, Melody Teo, Jocelyn Ng, Zhang Ailin and Parveen Nair.

Yeo also told them to give their best in front of the almost-200 strong Singapore section that had travelled to watch them play, which comprised mainly of the team’s family members and friends.

“They came back with fighting spirit and everyone worked together,” she said. “Credit to these young players, I thought they did well.”

While some of the players, like Kimberly Lim and Zhang, had tears running down their faces after the game, vice-captain Nurul Baizura insisted the defeat did not hurt them too much and they would come back stronger.

“It’s definitely (an opportunity for) growth and we are taking it positively,” she said. “After all, it’s a new line combination for us, with a mix of young and old and hopefully the younger ones will take this as a stepping stone and learning journey as to what international level is all about.”

For Malaysia, it was sweet success after 18 months of gruelling preparation and the team celebrated with the supporters long into the evening after the victory ceremony ended.

“I’m really ecstatic for the girls,” Robinson beamed. “No win in a grand final is easy… we’ve all got to work together as a team and that’s why they all deserved to go on today. They all contributed and that’s what sports is all about I was really proud. They are a great bunch and I am glad to have the opportunity to coach them.”

Sharpshooter Najwa, smiling from ear to ear, added: “I feel proud, like, you know what? We totally deserved it after 18 months of hard work, we totally deserved the gold.”