National men doubles Low Juan Shen-Mohamad Arif Ab.Latif could only achieve a bronze medal as they suffered a defeat at the hands of China pair Zhang Wen-Wang Yilyu during the semi-finals of the World University Games (Universiade) in Gwangju yesterday.
The Malaysian pair were certainly not the preferred choice heading to the match, but gave a tight fight, winning the first set 21-18, before going down in the subsequent two sets 17-21, 11-21.
The defeat also means that the national badminton team only bring back two bronze medals from the Universiade, with the other coming from the mixed team event.
This accomplishment, however, failed to repeat the success of three bronze medals won by the badminton team in Kazan, Russia, two years ago.
Arif, talking to Utusan, said he and his partner gave it all during their match against the China favourites.
He went to add that their mistakes are the ones that caused them the match.
In the mean time, Juan Shen admitted to being disappointed by their defeat, but satisfied with the bronze medal.
“Our opponents were far stronger. Their smashing abilities gave them an advantage even with their mistakes.”
Photo credits: utusan.com
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