SIBU: Sarawak’s 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) men’s indoor volleyball team once again found themselves in tears, but this time they were tears of joy.
Team captain Brandon Chu Hock Yew, when approached by reporters after winning bronze by defeating Johor in straight sets (3-0), said the tears this time around were “different”.
“Yesterday (Aug 21), we cried because we lost and did not achieve our goal of becoming champions, but today (Aug 22), we cried because we were able to bring home bronze for Sarawak,” he said.
During the semi-final match yesterday, the home team was defeated by Selangor 1-3, losing their chance to compete for the gold medal.
Brandon extended his gratitude to all the supporters who had given their unwavering support to the team since day one.
Meanwhile, head coach Pang Sii Chuong said he was satisfied with his team’s performance throughout the Games.
“They played with the same determination as they did during training. Even though today was their last match, they gave it their all and brought home a bronze medal for Sarawak,” he said.
He added that the pressure of playing on home ground contributed to the loss against Selangor.
“Our hope was for gold. However, the pressure of playing at home affected their performance. We will strive harder for the next SUKMA,” he said.
Tomorrow (Aug 23), Selangor will face the Federal Territories for the gold medal.
Meanwhile, in the women’s indoor volleyball, Sarawak will compete against Selangor for the gold medal, which will be the main highlight for Sarawak.
