Au's triumph over Chan raises hopes for team title
Hong Kong are looking for a double triumph in the Asian Junior Championships as they target success in the team event which starts today, following the one-two in the girls' final yesterday.
Second seed Annie Au Wing-chi lived up to expectations as she trounced compatriot Joey Chan Ho-ling 3-1 at the Hong Kong Squash Centre to lift the title.
'We have done so well in the individual event and now our target should be set for the team title,' said Hong Kong coach Tony Choi Yuk-kwan. 'Our major obstacle will be the Malaysians, but if we can build on our displays in the individual event, we stand a very good chance.'
Hong Kong's awesome foursome - Au, Chan, Leung Shin-nga and Chiu Ka-kei - helped the SAR snatch the world junior title last year and will be the team to beat when they take on the Philippines in the first round at the Cornwell Street Squash Centre today.
Au, who prevailed with a 6-9, 10-8, 9-3, 9-2 victory over her compatriot, was delighted to win the title after losing in the final two years ago.
'I did not play too well in the first game, perhaps because I was too eager to win,' said Au, who will turn 18 on Friday. 'But after I came from behind to win the second game, I gained enough confidence to win.
'Winning the title is the best early birthday present and hopefully I can help the team successfully defend the title.'
A tearful Chan said: 'This is my last major tournament as a junior because I will turn 19 in May. I will spend more time on my studies in the coming year as I am preparing for the university examination next year. I will then I decide my future in the sport.'
Hong Kong's boys' team, meanwhile, will take on Taiwan in the opening round today. Coach Choi said their target would be a top-four position as Pakistan, India and Malaysia were all very strong.
