China down Malaysia in Asia Team Badminton Championships semis

Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong levelled the score when they beat China's He Jiting-Tan Qiang 21-18, 21-12. Malaysia eventually lost the match 3-1. - Bernama pic

ALOR SETAR: The Malaysian men’s team fell short of making the final of the Asia Team Badminton Championships after losing 3-1 to China in the semi-finals.

With their spot in the Thomas Cup Finals secured, Malaysia opted for a line-up without world No. 2 Datuk Lee Chong Wei.

And China took full advantage as world No. 7 Shi Yuqi was firing on all cylinders to beat national No. 2 Lee Zii Jia 21-18, 21-9.

Rio Olympic silver medallists Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong levelled the score when they beat He Jiting-Tan Qiang 21-18, 21-12.

But China advanced again with Qiao Bin thumping Soong Joo Ven 21-17, 21-8.

The match was sealed after Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi fell short in a 15-21, 13-21 defeat to Han Chengkai-Zhou Haodong.

“I think we were both under pressure and it affected our performance today,” admitted Yew Sin.

“I’m really sorry that we didn’t do well. It was the important point for the team but we couldn’t deliver.

“This defeat, however, has shown us where our weak points are and we definitely hope to come back stronger.”

China now go on to meet either Indonesia or South Korea in the final.