| Fadhil Yunus |
ROYAL Brunei Armed Forces Sports Council (MS ABDB) captured their maiden netball gold after an outstanding 46-45 victory over overwhelming favourites Brunei-Muara in the 3rd Brunei Darussalam National Games (SKBD) at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex yesterday.
MS ABDB’s goal attack Zuraidah proved the decisive factor in the final quarter to hold off the advances of a Brunei-Muara side which largely boasted national players who are on course for selection for upcoming regional or international tournaments.
The goal attack steered her side to a historic triumph after enhancing her conversion rate with a succession of baskets as Brunei-Muara captained by national player Nurafiqah battled hard to keep in touch with their clearly unfazed opponents.
MS ABDB coach Muhd Syamsul bin Nasrul felt proud of his charges after seeing his side recovered from a sluggish start with a perfect response.
“I am proud of my team who was able to defeat the Brunei-Muara team which composed many national players,” said Muhd Syamsul in an interview with the Bulletin after the medal presentation ceremony.
“Brunei-Muara also gave us really stiff competition and it is good that they gave us a strong fight,” added the coach.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, in a group picture with the winners. – FADHIL YUNUS
The coach revealed that the players managed to shake off marginal leads from Brunei-Muara and lifted the morale of the players.
“In the first and second quarters they dropped off slightly. But I told them to rise up, do not fear, fight and whatever they can do you can do more.”
The victory tasted even sweeter as previously, MS ABDB best accomplishment was bronze in the first edition and missed out on a podium finish in the second edition.
The victorious MS ABDB side introduced three to five new players with the other players comprising senior members who have already gained experience.
When asked on the goal attack’s excellent conversion rate in the final quarter which was pivotal in clinching gold for MS ABDB, Muhd Syamsul replied: “For the goal attack, I feel proud besides she was the only one who represents the national team in MS ABDB.”
Meanwhile, IPT secured the bronze medal after beating Temburong 41-30.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, presented the medals.
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