IT needed a cool, calm and collected performance from the ever-popular Moh Keen Hoo and youngster Lim Kok Leong to reclaim the men’s snooker doubles gold at the Philippines Sea Games yesterday.
The Malaysian pair had to be on their toes to stave off a late fightback from the Philippines’ Alvin Barberro-Jefrey Roda before winning 3-1 in the best-of-five format decider at the Manila Tent Hotel.
Keen Hoo, 33, who made his debut at the 2003 Hanoi Games, was clearly delighted to claim his third career Sea Games gold.
‘I’ve competed in many Sea Games. While there have been many good moments, not all went according to plan,’ said Keen Hoo.
‘Obviously, I’m very happy to win my third Sea Games gold this time... and take back the (doubles) gold we won at the 2015 Singapore Games.
‘Our opponents today (yesterday) were in really good form coming into this competition and it was important to control them.
‘I have to give credit to my partner Lim. Although he is making his Sea Games debut, he handled the pressure very well.’
Keen Hoo and former partner Rory Thor won gold in the same event at the 2015 Singapore Games but were forced to settle for bronze at the 2017 KL Games.
Keen Hoo also won the men’s individual gold at the 2007 Korat Games.
Kok Leong and Keen Hoo will also compete in the men’s singles, which begins today.