JINHUA: The national sepak takraw squad were once again forced to settle for second best behind Thailand after going down in straight games to the latter in the men's inter-regu final at the Hangzhou Asian Games today.
Azlan Alias, Amirul Zazwan Amir and Zarif Marican lost 21-15, 21-19 to Thailand's Pansan Pichet, Yupadee Pattarapong and Khamchan Sittipong in a match that lasted 58 minutes at the Jinhua Gymnasium.
Malaysia had won gold in the inter-regu during the 2018 Indonesia games when Thailand did not take part in the category.
National team coach Ahmad Jais Baharun admitted that the Thais were the better side on the day.
"Thailand are both strong in attack and defence. Our players did their best to execute the game plan we had," Jais said.
"We tried to come back in the second set but a number of controversies (decisions) hampered our momentum.
"I hope the players will not be too disheartened. We need them to remain focused and continue to improve their performances for upcoming competitions."
Tekong Syahir Rosdi, who was on the bench, echoed Jais' sentiments.
"Thailand are a strong side but we gave it our all and never gave up," said Syahir.
"But luck was not on our side, it (gold) was just not meant to be."
Malaysia thus concludes its campaign in the sepak takraw competition with two silvers.
The national team had lost 2-0 to Thailand in the men's team final last week.