Datuk Lee Chong Wei's smashes and exquisite netplays was not enough to beat Lin Dan in the finals of the world championships. A very close encounter between the two, Lin Dan was the stronger one as he ensured his supremacy in the world badminton circuit.
Chong Wei started off well by winning the first set but he was out of sorts in the second set, The third set was a close tie as the game went into deuce.
For Ching Wei, it was not a great end for the first set but nevertheless it was a win. Chong Wei who took a 3-0 in the first set, let 'EGO' Dan(not Super Dan!!) to peg back but the last smash from Chong Wei was enough to seal the set. From his body language itself, we can see Chong Wei is in the hunt for the championship whereas Lin Dan could thank the net for being kind to him.
Lin Dan didn't look enthusiastic during the game as unforced errors by Datuk Sarr allowed Lin Dan to come back to the tie and ensured that the deuce happened. Sheer determination and tenancity helped Lee Chong Wei to nab the first set.
Come 2nd set, Lee Chong Wei continued his steady momentum by taking a three nil in the second set. Lin Dan who is known for his powerful smashes and brilliant net play came back to make it a tie at 3-3.
Lin Dan took the lead in the second set when Chong Wei, who looked odds on to get a point during rallies but his final product was left much to be desired. As the set on went, Lin Dan begin to play his mind games but Chong Wei, being a noted professional showed no signs of being perturbed by Lin Dan.
The 2nd set was a much gruelling affair, as both players showed great courage and determination to ensure that their shuttle ends at the right place. Lin Dan, showed his customary smashes but I was more amazed with Chong Wei's defence as he mananged to retrieve shots which were up to 266 KM/H! Great defensive display from the 29 year old.
The Chinese Southpaw begin to grow in stature as he scored 6 straight points to subdue the presence of Chong Wei. This time, the lad from Penang was bullied by Lin Dan and Chong Wei's ever impressive decision making skills was in vain as he made unwarranted errors, giving Dan free points.
The desolate Chong Wei gave away the 2nd set as Lin Dan nailed the set with a score of 21-14. Lee Chong Wei had to push harder for the 3rd set and if he continues his 2nd set display, the title will slowly go to Beijing!
The 3rd set was a tight affair, as both players were neck to neck. Chong Wei, determined to win his first and last world championship gave Lin Dan no respite as his 265 KM/h jumping smash beat the sprawling Lin Dan.
The fighting spirit shown by the Malaysian was of exemplary and with many Malaysian behind him, we would surely want to end the tie with joy! The moment Chong Wei reached the 11th point, he looked confident and primed for the remainder set.
The dummy shot by him for the 12th point showed that he was giving Lin Dan a run for his money. As the game went on, Chong Wei was on the offensive as he knew that only such way can guarantee him the win.
The tie ensued into a cat and mouse game, as Lin Dan and Lee Chong Wei were giving it their all. The moment Chong Wei reached the 15th mark, he looked more charismatic and confident. Lin Dan, being a warrior, came back to tie the game at 16-16(This time, I was in a spot of bother as it was nerve wrecking!!)
The moment it reached 19-19, I was like God, why are you doing this!!! It's nerve wrecking!! The moment Chong Wei reached the 20th point, I was like come on!! But Lin Dan had other ideas and it was a deuce again!!
I was telling myself, one more Datuk Sarr but Lin Dan's jumping smash was just too strong for Chong Wei to take. Then Lin Dan got the match point and I told myself, Ego sarr please flunk it!!
The shuttle hit the net and Chong Wei was a beaten man, Lin Dan as usual, stripped and Sharon Wee ended it by saying so near yet so far. Great display from both badminton giants but Chong Wei had to be contend with a runner up place.
Both players played well and we were feasted with a great game. Olympics will be his next target and I'm sure, Datuk Lee Chong Wei will continue his hardwork and cement his place as one of the greats in Badminton.
Avinesh;s verdict: Gun for the Olympics mann!! You still made us proud, Datuk! Malaysia Boleh!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment