Indonesia downed Thailand
05/11/08 23:42Indonesia downed Thailand 3-2 in Thomas Cup elimination round
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Third singles Simon Santoso played the decisive role in Indonesia`s win over Thailand 3-2 after defeating Pakkawat Vilailak 21-11, 21-9 in the elimination round of Group D of Thomas Cup Badminton championships at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on Sunday.
Indonesian team in a precarious situation when Sony Dwi Kuncoro and Taufik Hidayat were unexpectedly defeated by their opponents, leaving host Indonesia behind 1-2.
But mens doubles Joko Riyadi and Hendra Gunawan managed to equal the score to 2-2 after beating Sudked Prappakamol and Songphon Anugritayawon in three sets 17-21, 21-8, 21-12.
Simon Santoso, who appeared to be much superior over his opponent, both in world ranking and international experience, eventually brushed off the worry of his team and the thousands of spectors. From the start of the match, he pressed on his opponent and eventually won easily, and confirmed Indonesia`s victory.
The following are the results of the Group D elimination round between Indonesia and Thailand:
1. Sonny Dwi Kuncoro (Indonesia) vs Boonsak Polsana (Thailand) 0-2 (17-21, 15-21)
2. Markis Kido and Hendra Setiawan (Indonesia) vs Tesana Panvisavas and Nitipong Saengsila (Thailand) 0-2 (21-11, 20-16)
3. Taufik Hidayat (Indonesia) vs Tanongsak Saensoboosuk (Thailand) 0-2 (21-23, 18-21)
4. Joko Riyadi and Hendra Gunawan (Indonesia) vs Sudked Prappakamol/Songphon Anugritayawon (Thailand) 17-21, 21-8, 21-12)
5. Simon Santoso (Indonesia) vs Pakkawat Vilailak (Thailand) 21-11.(*)
