Malaysia secure spot in last eight in China

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia booked their place in the last eight following a hard fought 3-0 win over Asian Games champions Hong Kong in the Women’s World Team Championships in Dalian, China.

Eight-time world champion Nicol David showed the way with a superb comeback from two sets down to beat Annie Au 6-11, 6-11, 11-6, 11-4, 11-6 in 43 minutes.

S. Sivasangari delivered the winning point by taking out Joey Chan 15-13, 7-11, 11-8, 11-9 in 34 minutes.

Low Wee Wern wrapped up the tie for Malaysia with a 6-11, 12-10, 11-8, 11-9 win over Lee Ka Yi in 38 minutes.

It was the second victory in Group D for Malaysia, who also chalked a 3-0 win over South Africa on Tuesday.

Fourth seeds Malaysia should beat Switzerland today to top Group D, which will make it easier for the team to negotiate the knockout stage.

Yesterday’s success was also a morale booster for the Malaysian team after they only settled for bronze at the Asian Games in Indonesia last month.

Malaysia were the defending champions but were stunned 0-2 by India in the semi-finals last month.