SELANGOR: One goal down was no cause for panic as Sarawak turned adversity into a 19-6 rout of Federal Territories to maintain their winning start.
Sarawak’s women’s water polo squad defeated Penang 18-11 in their opening match on Wednesday (Aug. 12), trailing 3-2 after the first period at the Darul Ehsan Aquatic Centre today.
But coach Lau Kum Weng’s charges stayed composed and stuck to their game plan, using disciplined defending and patient attacks to turn the match around.
Lau said the team had prepared for the possibility of falling one or two goals behind and stressed the importance of controlling the tempo.
“I told the girls before the game to be prepared to be one or two goals down. If that happened, the captain had to take control of the tempo,” he told reporters at the tournament venue.
His plan paid off as Sarawak produced a strong second period before continuing to dominate the remaining periods to complete a commanding 19-6 victory.
“I’m quite happy with the win, but we can improve much more,” said Lau.
Thong Kar Sing was impressive for Sarawak, scoring five goals after her nine-goal haul against Penang.
Lau praised Thong’s competitive nature and desire to win, while acknowledging that Sarawak face tougher tests ahead.
Despite the perfect start, he remained cautious about their chances, noting that performances and temperament can change quickly during a match.
“When you can lead, of course it’s much better, but the players’ performance can be up and down. The temperament can change within seconds,” he said.
Present to watch the match were Deputy Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu; Sarawak Sports Corporation’s (SSC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Sarawak State Sports Council’s (MSNS) Director, Mu’azamir Jili; and Amateur Swimming Association of Sarawak’s (ASAS) President, Pemanca Tan Kun Gee; and ASAS’s Technical Director, Voon Yong Hui.
Sarawak’s second straight win keeps them firmly in contention in the round-robin competition.
They next face Selangor tomorrow (Friday, Aug. 14), before taking on Negeri Sembilan on August 16.
