Heavy rains as a result of recent typhoon played spoil sport, as Malaysia-Singpaore match had to be abandoned after three quarters on Day 2 of ninth Asia Cup for women. Malaysia led their SEA Games rival Singapore 7-0 at that time. Even the third quarter was completed with lot of difficulty due to heavy turf
Only two matches were scheduled for Day 2. India and China teams have landed the Kawasaki Stadium, which is am hours drive from Hotel Miyako, where these two teams are staying, only to get drenched in their exit from the Gates.
It is understood that the Miyako is the costliest place of stay in this part of Gifu Prefecture. Most other teams therefore preferred to stay in other hotels suiting their budget.
All technical officials, umpires and AHF officials in good numbers (?) are in Miyako.
Even the first day saw continuous drizzling.
All the four matches were held amidst 10-15 degree centigrade temperature and amidst mild downpour.
Hockey teams from two schools were the spectators here, and walked out disappointingly after a quarter was washed out.
Japan coach Siegried Aikman was telling them the nuances of the game in Japanese.
Yesterday, the 9th Asia Cup got off to a sensational start. Malaysia led China 4-3 till 57th minute.
However, China did not give up. Meng Yuan in the 57h and Meiyu Liang in the 60th slotted a goal apiece to walk away with a sensational win.
India posted somewhat a lethargic win over Singapore (10-0), despite wasting chances and penalty corners.
India posted 16-0 and 13-0 in the last two Asia Cups against the same rivals.
South Korea whipped Thailand for a 8-0 win in the third match. Seunga Park struck a hattrick, all field efforts.
The much awaited match of the day of course went to the last of outings.
The hosts, who are also defending Champions, posted a smooth looking but laborious victory over Thailand (7-0)
Incidentally, except Malaysia-China, the losing teams did not score even a token goal, and even appeared striking one.
That is how the Ninth Edition of Asia Cup got off before stumbling at rain block on Day 2.
Indications are that the rains will ease out by tomorrow noon.
Tomorrow will see the remaining one quarter of Malaysia-Singpaore match, followed by India-China (14.30 hrs local time). Other two matches as scheduled will follow in the evening.
Thailand Vs Kazakhstan and Japan Vs Korea.