Thai men and women's teams retain takraw crowns

The women got off to a flying start, taming arch-rivals Vietnam 15-13 15-10 15-13 to claim the 

team gold for the sixth consecutive time. 

The men’s team, spearheaded by veteran Pronchai Kaokaew who became a father 10 days ago, made unexpectedly quick work of the hosts, cruising to their 12th gold medal in the Games via a scoreline of 15-6 15-7 15-5.

The result of the showdown was a big relief for the Thais after Indonesia put up a gutsy fight in the pool competition, taking the Kingdom’s squad to five sets. 

“We learned a lesson from that match and did some homework to fix the problems. We didn’t expect an easy game today. The credit goes to the staff coaches for a good game plan, then a terrific performance by the players – especially Weerawut Na Nongkhai who served brilliantly,’’ said team manager Tawat Kumutpongpanich.

Pornchai, whose wife Panadda Butsatham gave birth to a son, hoped the win would bring happiness to fans at home, especially victims of flooding.

“I’m so proud of this gold medal. I hope it will put a smile on the face of people in Thailand. They have suffered a lot due to the floods,’’ said Pornchai, who dedicated the gold medal to his baby son, named “Takraw”. 

Women’s team manager Pairoj Archarungroj said his charges fought valiantly to retain their grip on gold in the second set when they were trailing 9-5.

“They were really focused even they were down. It was a satisfying result and I hope they will keep up the good work in the regu event,” he said.