AICH: Malaysia’s men’s badminton team must embrace a never-say-die spirit when they face top seeds Indonesia in the quarter-finals of the Asian Games on Tuesday (Sept 22), national doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky said.
Rexy said the Malaysian players should not be overly concerned about Indonesia’s status as the tournament favourites, but instead take to the court with confidence and fight until the final point of every match.
"This is a never-say-die (attitude),” he said briefly after Malaysia defeated Mongolia 3-0 in the opening round at Ichinomiya City Municipal Gymnasium on Monday (Sept 21).
The victory over Mongolia also gave the Malaysian players an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the court conditions ahead of the crucial meeting with Indonesia.
"We hope that from the opportunity we had playing against Mongolia, at least we have experienced the conditions at this venue. Hopefully, all the players can take this as an advantage,” he said.
Malaysia advanced to the quarter-finals after completing a 3-0 victory over Mongolia, with wins by Leong Jun Hao, Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani combination and Justin Hoh. - Bernama
