Singapore edge out Sri Lanka to take Asian Netball crown

Singapore emerged victorious over Sri Lanka in a closely contested final at the 13 th  Asian Netball Championship, winning by a narrow margin of 67-64 played at Bangalaru,India yesterday

This final  saw the  most thrilling one after both teams equalled the points 52 all after four quarters while  in extra 14 minutes once again two teams made closely contested game and after the first half of the extra time (7 minutes)  once again two teams recorded 59 all and final half of the extra time Singapore dominated with a lead of three points to clinch the title and last two times champions Sri Lanka had to be  satisfied with runners up this time.

Despite a strong performance by Sri Lanka, Singapore’s resilience and tactical edge secured them the title, marking a memorable win after a close tussle yesterday.The first quarter  Singapore took an early lead 17-12 with five points difference but second quarter Sri Lanka fought back to get closer by 27-28 and Lionesses were able to get 15 points while Singaporeans managed to get only 11 and half time Singapore led by a one point margin.

Third quarter Sri Lankan lasses came back strongly while goal shooter Thisala Algama netted the goal with more confidence well supported by Rashmi Perera and Sri Lanka led 42-39 after third quarter.

The fourth and last quarter both teams did few  mistakes and Thisala the most successful shooter also couldn’t get the goal as she expected  and that advantage got by Singapore to equal the points .GK player  Gayani Dissanayake and GD  player Malmi Hettiarachchi made fine display to prevent opponents from getting points and get back  to the game .The skipper Dulanigi Wannitilleka, Gayanjali Amarawansa played  In GA position and Centre position used their experience to get momentum but Singapore used tactic to get lead in the second half of the extra time which paved the way to superb fighting victory. Sri Lanka the last two times champions couldn’t create  history as first team to win three in a row but Sri Lanka still leading with six times championship titles  in the 13 year history.

Earlier in the semi finals Sri Lanka defeated Hong Kong 71-47 while Singapore beat Malaysia by 54 -46  to enter the final. Sri Lanka coach P.D.N. Prasadi said the team performance throughout the tournament was  exceptional and  final game was the most thrilling game in this series.We have five young players  and less exposure before the Asia Cup but as a team Sri Lanka maintained high quality playing style untill the last moment she said.

Source:Daily News